The 2025 World Junior Hockey Championship is set to showcase some of the brightest young talent in the sport, with a star-studded lineup of players ready to take center stage in Minnesota. Here's a closer look at some of the players to watch, who could shape the future of the NHL.
Canada's Gavin McKenna: The Rising Star
Gavin McKenna, an 18-year-old forward from Whitehorse, is a player to watch. After dominating the Western Hockey League with the Medicine Hat Tigers, he struggled to match his previous point total in the NCAA with Penn State, registering 18 points in 16 games. However, with his potential to go first overall in the 2026 NHL draft, he remains a key part of Canada's attack and a potential future star.
Sweden's Ivar Stenberg: The Playmaking Sensation
Ivar Stenberg, an 18-year-old Swedish winger, is another player to watch. With 24 points in 25 games in the Swedish top professional league, he's a shifty playmaker challenging for the top draft picks. His performance in the tournament could further solidify his status as a future NHL star.
Michael Misa: The Rising Star from San Jose
Michael Misa, a 19-year-old forward, has quickly risen through the ranks. Initially overlooked for Canada's selection camp, he now represents the San Jose Sharks. With 134 points in 65 contests in the 2024-25 season, he was selected No. 2 in the NHL draft. His performance in Minnesota could further enhance his draft stock.
Anton Frondell: The Big Center from Sweden
Anton Frondell, an 18-year-old Swedish center, was selected No. 3 by the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL draft. With 15 points in 25 games in the Swedish professional league, he's a big, skilled player who could be a key part of his country's attack in the tournament.
James Hagens: The American Leader
James Hagens, a 19-year-old center, led the United States to gold in Ottawa last January. With 18 points in 16 games this season, he's a key part of the American team's success in Minnesota and a potential future star for the Boston Bruins.
Cole Hutson: The Younger Brother's Legacy
Cole Hutson, the younger brother of Lane Hutson, is a 19-year-old defenseman. He led all skaters with 11 points in seven contests at last year's world juniors for the U.S. With 20 points in 18 games this season, he's a rising star for Boston University and a potential future NHL player.
Alberts Smits: The Latvian Defenceman
Alberts Smits, an 18-year-old defenseman from Latvia, is a top-10 draft prospect. With 12 points in 29 games in Finland's top professional division, he's a skilled player who could be a key part of his country's defense in the tournament.
Chase Reid: The American Defenceman
Chase Reid, a 17-year-old American defenseman, is another draft-eligible prospect. With 35 points in 31 games in the OHL, he's a rising star who could showcase his skills in Minnesota and attract the attention of NHL scouts.
