The 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship has officially kicked off, bringing excitement to hockey fans around the globe as the tournament commenced on December 26, 2025, with four thrilling matches. The spotlight shines on Team Canada, who took to the ice against Finland at 4:30 PM PST, with aspirations of redeeming themselves after last year’s shocking quarter-final exit.
Held annually, the IIHF World Junior Championship is renowned for featuring the top Under-20 players from various countries, providing not only exhilarating competition but also showcasing future NHL stars. Fans will be closely watching players like Tanner Molendyk and Andrew Gibson, who represent Canada and are also prospects for the Nashville Predators. Both players are making waves with their performance, hinting at promising careers to come.
Team Canada enters the tournament as the host, motivated by the heartbreak of last year's performance, where they were eliminated by Czechia. They had tied the game 2-2 late, only to have Jakub Stancl score the winning goal with just 11 seconds left, sending the Canadians home early. Lesson learned, they are determined to not let history repeat itself. This year’s roster is led by captain Brayden Yager of the Lethbridge Hurricanes, supported by alternate captains Tanner Molendyk and Calum Ritchie. A particularly exciting player to keep an eye on is Gavin McKenna, who at just 17 years old, has already made headlines with 97 points last WHL season and 60 points already this season. His performance puts him on many scouts' radar for the 2026 NHL draft, where he is expected to be a top choice.
The opening day of the championship not only features the Canada vs. Finland matchup but also sees Sweden clash with Slovakia, Germany face off against the United States, and Switzerland meet Czechia. This day is pivotal as teams begin to cement their standings and set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
Among the eight Nashville Predators prospects participating are two players from Canada, Tanner Molendyk and Andrew Gibson, along with three from Sweden and one from Czechia. Tanner Molendyk, selected 23rd overall by Nashville, is already making his mark with the Saskatoon Blades as he currently serves as alternate captain and has netted three goals and 17 points in just 19 games this season.
Andrew Gibson, who has four goals and seven points this season with the Soo Greyhounds, has been paired with Molendyk during practices, indicating strong chemistry which could prove advantageous as the tournament progresses. Meanwhile, on the American side, Teddy Stiga and Joey Willis are among the talents Aussie fans will be eager to watch as they seek to make their Legacy known.
Adding to the international flavor, Felix Nilsson and Viggo Gustafsson represent Sweden, along with David Edstrom, who is also making his impact felt after being part of the return for top goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askrov's trade to the Sharks.
Jakub Milota, representing Czechia, rounds out the Predators' involvement and brings with him significant junior experience as he emerged as the QMJHL All-Rookie Team selection last year.
This diversity not only highlights the global appeal of the championship but also underlines the growing presence of Nashville as they scout and develop young talent within the league. With thrilling individual performances expected, the tournament promises to be packed with Olympic-like electricity.
Fans around the world will be tuning in, particularly to see how their home countries fare against the world's best, with matches broadcast widely, including on TSN. It’s customary for these championships to serve as platforms for aspiring NHL players to shine, so long-time hockey supporters and newcomers alike are encouraged to witness the future of the sport.
With the tournament set to run until January 5, 2026, culminating with the gold medal game, the familiarity of matches mixed with unexpected outcomes foreshadows days filled with compelling narratives and unforgettable moments. Whether it's the clash of skill, grit, or just the sheer thrill of competition, hockey lovers are sure to be entertained throughout this festive tournament period. So, mark your calendars and prepare for the face-offs — the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship is here!
