Canadiens Prospects Gear Up for 2026 World Junior Championship
The 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship is just around the corner, running from December 26 to January 5 in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the Montreal Canadiens will have several of their young talents taking center stage. Representing the Canadiens are Carlos Handel, LJ Mooney, Michael Hage, Aatos Koivu, and Mikus Vecvanags, all set to compete at the highest level of junior hockey.
Handel, who will be suiting up for Germany, brings valuable experience after making his World Juniors debut as a 17-year-old in 2025. Drafted by Montreal in the sixth round last year, the 18-year-old defenseman has been solid this season with the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL, recording 12 points in 25 games. His group-stage schedule includes matchups against the USA, Slovakia, Sweden, and Switzerland, all games to watch for German fans and Canadiens supporters alike.
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Meanwhile, LJ Mooney will be taking the ice for Team USA, a perfect homecoming of sorts as the tournament takes place in Minnesota. The 5-foot-8 forward is a freshman at the University of Minnesota and has already made an impact, posting 15 points in 19 games this season. Mooney’s international pedigree is impressive, with silver and bronze medals from the 2024 and 2025 IIHF U-18 World Championships. Team USA will face Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, and Sweden in the round-robin stage, giving Mooney a platform to showcase his skill on a familiar stage.
Michael Hage is another name to watch, representing Canada and coming off a stellar season at Michigan. After earning Big Ten Rookie of the Year honors last season with 34 points in 33 games, Hage has continued his hot streak, already tied for second in NCAA Division 1 scoring with 28 points in 20 games. Drafted 21st overall in 2024, Hage is expected to anchor Canada’s top six, with the team’s group-stage clashes including Czechia, Latvia, Denmark, and Finland.
Aatos Koivu is set to follow in the footsteps of his father, Saku Koivu, making his World Juniors debut for Finland. The 19-year-old forward made waves over the summer with six goals in five games during a showcase tournament and is poised to be a key contributor as Finland aims to build on last year’s silver medal. Finland’s group includes Denmark, Latvia, Czechia, and a highlight matchup against Canada on December 31.
Finally, Mikus Vecvanags will make his first World Juniors appearance as Latvia’s goaltender. Drafted in the fifth round in 2024, the 6-foot-3 netminder has posted a 2-2-1 record in six QMJHL games this season with the Newfoundland Regiment. Vecvanags will face tough competition in group play, including Canada, Finland, Denmark, and Czechia, giving him an opportunity to shine on hockey’s global junior stage.
With TSN broadcasting all 29 tournament games, fans across North America will get a front-row seat to watch these Canadiens prospects battle for gold, gain invaluable experience, and continue their journey toward the NHL. The 2026 World Juniors promises excitement, skill, and a glimpse into the next generation of hockey stars.
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