Three players to watch on Team Canada at 2024 WJC
Macklin Celebrini, C: The projected first overall pick in the 2024 NHL draft is everything you look for in a franchise player. He skates well, has excellent vision and hands, and an amazing ability to finish with a shot that will sneak up on goalies. Celebrini can play on the wing, but is more effective at centre. It will be interesting to see how he’s deployed since centre ice is a strength on Canada’s roster. He’s dogged in his pursuit for the puck and is a legit two-way threat once he has it on his stick.
Matthew Poitras, C: Loaned to Team Canada at the last second by the Boston Bruins, Poitras had given his NHL club an unexpected boost through his first 27 games. With 13 NHL points in the bank, Poitras enters the event as the most tenured NHLer in the tournament. His success has been predicated on hard work and determination. He’s an incredibly smart player whose awareness allows him to avoid oncoming defenders, but also find teammates in traffic.
Fraser Minten, C: Toronto’s second round pick in the 2022 NHL draft, Minten played well enough in training camp to earn an extended stay with the Maple Leafs through four games of the regular season. Upon being returned to Kamloops, he was dealt to Saskatoon, making the Blades a legit threat for a long run into the spring. Minten has size, plays with a physical edge and his skill set allows him to take advantage of the space he creates in order to put up points. And while that may not be his calling card in this event, he may be able to handle the dual task of matching up against the opposition's best while still being able to contribute offensively.
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