With the NHL playoffs in full motion early in the 1st round, it’s almost time to start thinking about the Men’s IIHF World Championship hosted this year by Finland and Latvia. As usual, Canada will be a favourite to take home the trophy again, and its always intriguing to see which players will be a part of the team.
(Pexels / Tony Schnagl)
This event has not garnered as much attention in previous years because it happens during the heart of the NHL playoffs. But what’s unique about this tournament is that you can have players from NHL teams who get eliminated in the 1st or 2nd round join the team mid-way through the tournament.
One good example of a star player who has done this in the past is Sidney Crosby. But don’t get me wrong, this tournament remains very competitive despite the uncertainty of the players that will be representing the teams. The IIHF hopes to inspire the next generation of hockey players, so the more big name players that play in their tournaments, the better.
(Twitter / IIHF Hockey)
This year’s event was supposed to held in St. Petersburg, Russia, but Russia and Belarus remain banned from hosting and playing in any IIHF tournaments due to the ongoing Russia – Ukraine war. Finland’s Nokia Arena and Latvia’s Arena Riga will be the stadiums of choice, and as someone who enjoys seeing what different stadiums bring to the game, its always unique to see hockey played outside of North America.
Every year there are two teams that get promoted to the tournament (it’s like earning a job promotion, except earned through achievement) and this year we will see Hungary and Slovenia join the usual top countries.
I think its always important to highlight some of the players playing for Canada for the first time in this tournament. This year there will be eyes on a top prospect from Toronto, Ontario – Adam Fantilli.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CnK5z03OzEY/
The 18-year-old, who is years ahead in terms of hockey maturity than most, will get to show the world a preview of what he will bring to the NHL next season. Most people have heard of top prospect Connor Bedard, but Adam Fantilli is most likely going to be the next name called at the 2023 NHL entry draft.
Ranked number two by most scouts, Fantilli brings a well-rounded game. If I had to compare him to someone currently in the NHL, I’d say he plays similarly to Alex Barkov or Anze Kopitar but with more skill and speed.
Keep an eye out for Fantilli in this year’s tournament, he should be among the players that will help Canada hopefully secure the championship.
Remember to cheer on Canada this May – Go Canada Go!