Three players to watch for Team Germany at the 2021 WJC
Tim Stuetzle, C: A broken hand had him out of action from the middle of October and didn’t afford him the chance to get into any DEL games before leaving for Edmonton. By all accounts, he’ll be ready to go when Germany opens the tournament on Christmas Day. Stuetzle is an excellent skater, with amazing hands and vision. The third overall NHL Draft pick will create as much interest for his play in the tournament as he will for what happens when it’s over.
J.J. Peterka, LW: Was off to a hot start at more than a point per game on loan to Austrian team EC Salzburg before departing. A key member of Germany’s team last year (six points in seven games), he will be leaned on heavily without the likes of Kristian Reichel to complete the trio with Stuetzle. An energy player with a tireless work ethic, Peterka spent all of his draft season in the DEL and put up 11 points in 42 games with EHC Munchen before being selected by Buffalo in the second round of the 2020 draft.
Max Glotzl, D: Undrafted last year after ranking 79th on Central Scouting’s European list, Glotzl has a golden opportunity to turn heads at this tournament. He will likely benefit from Moritz Seider’s absence and will not only be tasked with big minutes, but should see some time on the power play. At 6-foot-2, 200 pounds he’s one of Germany’s bigger players, but is still a more than capable skater. If he can play sound defensively and move pucks efficiently without trying to play over his head, he could put himself into draft contention.
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