5 Must-Watch Players at the World Junior Hockey Championships

It’s that time of year in the hockey world. A three-day break from the NHL puts the spotlight on the kids as the World Junior Hockey Championships kick off on Boxing Day.

From already-drafted prospects to draft-eligible players looking to make a name for themselves, there will be no shortage of future NHL talent on display throughout the tournament.

Some fans are more in tune than others when it comes to junior hockey and the players they’re about cheer on representing their countries over the next few weeks.

There is big-time talent scattered across the powerhouse nations, so it’s extremely difficult to pinpoint a list of five. That said, let’s do just that and narrow it down to five key players everyone should know and be watching for at this year’s World Juniors.

Gavin McKenna

No player will have more eyes on him throughout the tournament than McKenna. Once viewed as a near lock to go first overall in the upcoming draft, that status is no longer a sure thing following an underwhelming start to his college hockey career.

Even if he were lighting it up at Penn State, McKenna would still be the biggest draw in Minnesota. His skill set is undeniable: elite hands, hockey IQ, creative playmaking ability, and a lethal shot that screams future star. It will be fascinating to see whether he can work that magic with the hockey world watching, especially as last year’s quarterfinal exit remains fresh in his mind.

Ivar Stenberg

One of the few prospects beginning to close the gap on—or in some circles, even surpass—McKenna is Sweden’s Stenberg. The 18-year-old has been outstanding in his second season with Frolunda HC, clipping at just under a point per game with 24 points (six goals, 18 assists) in 25 contests.

While the Swedes aren’t in the same group as McKenna and the Canadians, a potential medal-round matchup between the two would be must-watch. Stenberg’s speed, smarts, and dogged effort give him a real chance to steal the show and enhance his case to go first overall in June.

Michael Misa

Misa, the second overall pick from the 2025 NHL draft, will be right alongside McKenna as one of Team Canada’s offensive focal points. He had a cup of coffee in San Jose, showing flashes before being reassigned to the AHL ahead of his World Junior debut.

No player in the CHL was more productive than Misa last season, as he posted a staggering 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in 65 games. Canada will be relying on his goal-scoring ability to break games open, hoping to see him and McKenna connect as a dynamic duo that no other country can match up with.

Will Horcoff

Initially viewed as a reach when Kyle Dubas and the Penguins selected him 24th overall in the 2025 Draft, Horcoff has quickly silenced those doubters. The 6-foot-5, 201-pound center—and son of longtime NHLer Shawn Horcoff—has been dominant at Michigan, racking up 28 points (19 goals, nine assists) in just 20 games to lead the NCAA in goal scoring.

Now, he’ll have the chance to further showcase his growth on the international stage as a key piece of up front for the Americans. If he continues his current trajectory, this tournament could be the cherry on top of what’s already been a breakout season for Horcoff.

Cole Hutson

Hockey fans have already seen how special Lane Hutson is early in his NHL career—now it’s time to get reacquainted with another Hutson. Cole’s production in college has been nearly identical to that of his older brother, and some scouts actually believe he could be the more well-rounded defenseman.

As some will remember, he was dynamic at last year’s World Juniors, playing a pivotal role in the US’ gold medal run. Expect Hutson to once again be at the center of everything for the Americans as they chase a three-peat on home soil, something they’ve never done before.

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