NHL News
Latvia Shocks Canada: Matthew Schaefer Injury Ends His Tournament
After news Matthew Schaefer is out for the tournament and the shocking result in last night’s game, what is next for Team Latvia and Canada?
Matthews Schaefer will miss the remainder of the World Juniors tournament for Team Canada with a broken collarbone. Bob McKenzie states, “best guesstimate is a two to three-month injury. Sawyer Mynio (VAN/Seattle WHL) is now expected to be officially added to the Team Canada roster. It’s also possible (but not yet confirmed) that Carson Rehkopf (SEA/Brampton OHL) could also be officially added to the roster. If that happens, Team Canada’s 25-man roster will be complete.”
This news comes just hours after Friday’s game, which is one of the biggest upsets in WJC hockey history. For the first time in World Juniors, Team Latvia defeated Team Canada. A 2-2 tie went into overtime, and then several shooters in a shootout before Eriks Mateiko scored the game-winner.
It is still early in the tournament, so what is next for both teams?
Latvia Starting on the Right Foot
From Latvia’s perspective, this is an outstanding start to the tournament. Goaltender Linards Feldbergs stopped 62 shots between regulation, OT, and the shootout to backstop Latvia’s first-ever win over Canada at the World Juniors. Defeating the top-ranked team in their division in their opening game is no small feat. However, this is just the beginning. Today, they face a tough challenge against a strong USA team at 3:30 EST—a task that won’t come easily.
The United States holds the advantage, especially with Latvia likely fatigued after last night’s intense matchup against Canada. A quick turnaround against a powerhouse like the USA is far from ideal, but Latvia has already proven they can compete with the best.
Looking ahead, Latvia will need key wins against Germany and Finland to secure a favorable position for the quarterfinals. Finland has underperformed so far, scoring just three goals in two games. Meanwhile, Germany has also struggled, despite putting up a fight in a 3-1 loss to Finland yesterday.
Canada Needs To Rebound, and Fast
Canada’s loss to Latvia is a major cause for concern among hockey fans. Their upcoming game against Germany on the 29th will be crucial for both teams. Should Canada consider making changes before then?
Matthew Schaefer’s injury is brutal news for the team. He is a highly regarded defenseman and a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. Schaefer was expected to play a key role for Team Canada, and his injury against Latvia was a significant blow. Schaefer’s absence raises concerns for Team Canada as they aim to remain competitive.
With Schaefer unavailable and with limited time to make adjustments, head coach Dave Cameron is under significant pressure. Canada faces Germany on Sunday at 7:30 EST in what is shaping up to be a must-win matchup.
Next Up: Mitch Marner’s Hat Trick Spoiling McLellan Debut for Red Wings
