The 2025 IIHF World Hockey Championship is set to kick off on May 9 in Stockholm, Sweden, and Herning, Denmark, and Team Canada is bringing a star-studded roster that promises excitement and high-level competition. This year’s tournament is particularly significant as it serves as a crucial platform for players aiming to secure their spots on the Olympic team for the 2026 Games. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, Canada is poised to make a strong run for the gold medal.
Leading the charge for Canada is none other than hockey legend Sidney Crosby, who has been named captain for this year’s championship. Hockey Canada announced the news on May 9, confirming that Crosby will be supported by alternate captains Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche and Ryan O'Reilly of the Nashville Predators. Crosby’s experience is invaluable, especially considering his last appearance at the World Championship in 2015, where he captained Canada to a gold medal in the Czech Republic.
Crosby, who has also led the Canadian squad in various international competitions, including the Four Nations Face-Off earlier this year, the 2014 Sochi Olympics, and the 2016 World Cup, is eager to add another title to his impressive resume. "Every time I have the chance to represent Canada, it’s hard to say no. It’s an incredible opportunity," Crosby said. His leadership will be crucial as Canada prepares to face Slovenia in their opening match.
Among the fresh faces on the roster is 18-year-old Macklin Celebrini, who is making headlines as a Calder Trophy finalist after a stellar first season with the San Jose Sharks, where he amassed 63 points, including 25 goals, in 70 games. Celebrini is particularly excited about the opportunity to play alongside his childhood idol, Crosby. "It’s a dream come true. He has been an idol for me growing up, and having the chance to play with him is unreal," Celebrini expressed, highlighting the significance of this experience for his young career.
During a training session on May 9, Celebrini was paired with Crosby and Adam Fantilli on the first offensive unit, a combination that could prove lethal against their opponents. This setup not only allows Celebrini to learn from one of the best but also positions him to showcase his skills on an international stage.
As the tournament progresses, fans will also be keeping an eye on other notable players who are part of Canada’s roster. The forward combinations observed during training included Travis Konecny, Nathan MacKinnon, and Bo Horvat, as well as Kent Johnson, Ryan O’Reilly, and Brayden Schenn. Each line brings a unique dynamic, blending speed, skill, and experience, which will be critical as Canada aims for gold.
Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens will also have representation in the tournament with Emil Heineman, Mike Matheson, and Vinzenz Rohrer donning the Canadian colors. Their participation adds depth to the Canadian squad and showcases the growing talent within the NHL.
As the countdown to the tournament continues, anticipation builds not just for the games themselves, but for the stories that will unfold on the ice. With Crosby at the helm and a mix of young stars and seasoned players, Team Canada is ready to make a statement. Fans around the world will be watching closely as the team embarks on its quest for international glory.
The IIHF World Championship has always been a showcase of elite hockey talent, and this year’s edition is no exception. The tournament runs from May 9 to May 25, with Canada’s first game against Slovenia marking the beginning of a journey that could culminate in gold. As the players prepare to hit the ice, the excitement is palpable, and the potential for memorable moments is high.
In summary, with Crosby leading the charge and promising talents like Celebrini stepping up, Canada is set for a thrilling tournament. The blend of experience and youth could be the perfect recipe for success as they aim to reclaim their spot at the top of international hockey.
