The 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship is set to begin on December 26 in Minnesota. This premier event has captured the attention of junior hockey enthusiasts worldwide. As the tournament approaches, several Western Hockey League (WHL) players are projected to represent Canada. Here’s a closer look at these athletes across different positions.
Top WHL Forwards Likely to Represent Canada
A talented group of forwards from the WHL has emerged as strong candidates for the Canadian roster. The following players are particularly noteworthy:
- Terik Parascak (Prince George)
- Lynden Lakovic (Moose Jaw)
- Carson Wetsch (Kelowna)
- Tij Iginla (Kelowna)
- Carter Bear (Everett)
- Braeden Cootes (Seattle)
All but Carson Wetsch, the Kelowna Rockets captain, were first-round NHL draft picks. Wetsch was a third-round selection by the San Jose Sharks last year. The competition for roster spots is expected to be intense, but many of these players may find their way onto the lineup.
WHL Defensemen Contending for a Spot
Two promising defensemen are vying for a place on the Canadian team:
- Charlie Elick (Tri-City)
- Peyton Kettles (Kelowna)
While Elick has scored eight points in his first 16 games, Kettles, at just 18 years old, may have better prospects next season.
Goaltenders in the Mix
Goaltending is a key area to watch. The primary contender appears to be Carter George, who had an impressive 1.76 Goals Against Average last year. Additionally, the following WHL goalies are in contention:
- Josh Ravensbergen (Prince George)
- Evan Gardner (Saskatoon)
Both Ravensbergen and Gardner are expected to be in the conversation as Canada finalizes its roster.
WHL Players in the NHL with Potential
Several WHL players already in the NHL could also play a crucial role at the World Juniors if granted permission by their clubs:
- Harrison Brunicke (Kamloops)
- Ben Kindel (Calgary)
- Berkly Catton (Spokane)
Catton contributed one assist at last year’s tournament, while Kindel and Brunicke are eager to make their mark this year.
WHL Alumni in College Hockey
Gavin McKenna and Keaton Verhoeff are notable alumni currently making an impact in the NCAA.
- Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat/Penn State) – 4 goals, 10 assists in 13 games
- Keaton Verhoeff (Victoria/North Dakota) – 4 goals, 3 assists in 11 games
Both players are likely to be early selections in the 2026 NHL Draft and could contribute significantly if permitted to join the national team.
International WHL Players
The tournament will also showcase WHL players representing other countries, enhancing the global competition:
- Julius Miettinen (Everett/Finland)
- David Lewandowski (Saskatoon/Germany)
- Asanali Sarkenov (Spokane/Kazakhstan)
- Alisher Sarkenov (Prince Albert/Kazakhstan)
- Michal Orsulak (Prince Albert/Czechia)
- J.P. Hurlbert (Kamloops/United States)
- Max Curran (Edmonton/Czechia)
- Max Psenicka (Portland/Czechia)
- Adam Jecho (Edmonton/Czechia)
The presence of these players underlines the diverse talent pool from the WHL that will be visible on the international stage.
The countdown to the 2026 World Juniors is on, and fans will be keeping a close watch on how these young athletes perform as they aspire to represent Canada proudly.
