STL – Adam Jiricek, D (Brantford Bulldogs) 

OHL: 25GP – 10G, 19A, 29PTS 

WJC-20: 5GP – 4G, 1A, 5PTS 

16th overall, 2024; Height: 6-2; Weight: 185 lbs

With five points in five games, Jiricek has been a key contributor to Czechia’s success at the World Juniors. With Czechia set to face Canada in the semifinals, Jiricek is expected to log heavy minutes against top competition, something he’s handled very well all tournament. Over the last week, he has showcased the ability to deliver in big moments. His overtime highlight-reel goal against Finland gained attention from the hockey world and clearly stands as the goal of the tournament. Jiricek also scored a pivotal go-ahead goal in the quarterfinals, which eventually propelled them into the semifinal round. 

He has arguably been the best defenseman at this tournament. While not as offensively dynamic as Parekh, Jiricek’s two-way game has been beautiful to watch. He’s been a huge factor on the penalty-kill, always blocking shots and shutting down chances. Czechia would have a lot more goals against without him. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jiricek in the NHL as early as next season – if not full-time, then at least for an extended look. 

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UTA – Cole Beaudoin, C (Barrie Colts) 

OHL: 25GP – 14G, 27A, 41PTS 

WJC-20: 5GP – 3G, 4A, 7PTS 

24th overall, 2024; Height: 6-2; Weight: 210 lbs 

Beaudoin knows his role as a hockey player, and it is evident in his play. Centering a third line for Canada throughout the tournament alongside Desnoyers and Sam O’Reilly, he has helped form a clearly defined identity line. Despite limited power-play time, Beaudoin maximizes the impact of his shifts by driving the net for rebounds, playing physically, and applying sustained pressure on the forecheck. His power-forward style has been a constant and key contributor to his success, with the bulk of his seven points coming from high danger net front areas. 

*

2026 Eligible – Chase Reid, D (Soo Greyhounds) 

OHL: 31GP – 14G, 21A, 35PTS 

WJC-20: 5GP – 2G, 2A, 4PTS 

*Projected 1st round pick, 2026*; Height: 6-2; Weight: 187 lbs 

Reid stepped up big time for the United States with the loss of Cole Hutson that occurred in the second game of the preliminary round. He quickly became relied upon to quarterback the number one power-play unit, and he did not disappoint. His confidence, his deceptive passes, and his vision were all impressive, especially as a 17-year-old. I have no doubt he will be the first, if not one of the first, defenseman taken in the upcoming NHL draft. 

*

NSH – Brady Martin, C/RW (Soo Greyhounds) 

OHL: 13GP – 5G, 11A, 16PTS 

WJC-20: 5GP – 4G, 4A, 8PTS 

5th overall, 2025; Height: 6-0; Weight: 187 lbs

Martin has been a part of Canada’s best line throughout the tournament. Alongside Hage and McKenna, he provides pace, physicality, and forechecking pressure. Martin plays a direct, high-tempo game and is always a dual threat as both a shooter and passer. His skill set meshes well with his linemates and has translated into production – eight points in five games, with points in every outing. You can see why Nashville gave him a three-game trial to start the year – he’s a true competitor. 

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‘Til next time, 

Emmanuel Alforque