Welcome back to the return World Junior Predictions. The elite Under-20 showcase features plenty of players that could become NHL superstars. Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games and breaks down the head-to-head matchups and other factors that play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game of WJC Predictions is Latvia vs Canada. Be sure to check out more NHL predictions in the coming days as the 2024-25 season continues.
WJC Predictions
Switzerland vs Slovakia
Kazakhstan vs Sweden
Time: 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
TV: TSN; NHL Network (NHLN broadcast to air at 11 p.m. EST)
A Look at Kazakhstan
It’s the first game of the tournament for Kazakhstan, who was promoted for this year’s event. The Kazakhs face a tall order in trying to avoid relegation, but they have played together a lot. This group does have chemistry and isn’t a collection of stars.
One player to watch is Asanali Sarkenov, who is the only player in the CHL. Sarkenov plays for the Spokane Chiefs of the WHL and will be relied upon to carry his team this tournament.
A Look at Sweden
The Swedes got off to a great start in the first game. Sweden did fall behind early, but they roared back to a 5-2 win. It was the Axel Sandin-Pellikka Show as the Detroit Red Wings prospect had a hat trick. Sandin-Pellikka may get the headlines, but there are a number of talented players on this roster.
David Granberg also chipped in with a pair of assists to give Sweden the victory. They should be the favourites, but have to be careful not to underestimate their opponents.
Prediction
Kazakhstan will play with nothing to lose, but Sweden is too talented in this game.
Prediction: Sweden wins 7-1.
Latvia vs Canada
Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
TV: TSN; NHL Network
A Look at Canada
There’s no rest for the host, who played Finland in the night cap of Day 1. The Canadians opened their tournament with a 4-0 victory over Finland. Gavin McKenna wowed the crowd with a jaw-dropping opening goal.
However, Canada’s defence and goaltending put in a great shift against Finland. Carter George posted a 31-save shutout and gave the hosts some stability in between the pipes. Canada is going to be tough to beat if its defence stays at this level.
A Look at Latvia
The Latvians open the tournament with a tall order or taking on the motivated hosts. Latvia has a pair of NHL drafted prospects to headline its roster. Anaheim Ducks pick Darels Uljanskis and Washington Capitals selection Eriks Mateiko from the team that reached last year’s quarterfinal round.
There’s not a lot of flash on the roster, but this is a hard-working group. They also have a lot of continuity on the team. This team will give Canada problems if the hosts don’t get off the blocks quickly.
Prediction
Canada will want to impose its will and get some early goals. If Canada gets early, it could be a big problem for Latvia.
Prediction: Canada wins 6-2.
Main photo by: Jerome Miron-Imagn Imaes
The post WJC Predictions: Dec 27 Canada vs Latvia appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.