After just writing today that Jesse Puljujarvi would be a long shot for the Edmonton Oilers this series, the team has sent him to the World Championships to compete for Finland. Jack Eichel, fresh off the latest report of displeasure in Buffalo, is also off to the tournament for Team USA. Puljujarvi could be recalled at any time from his loan if the Oilers decide they need him in their playoff lineup.
The 18-year old Finn will play in his first World Championship after dominating the World Juniors in 2016. With 17 points in just seven games, Puljujarvi was named the tournament MVP and helped a loaded Finland win gold alongside other current NHL players like Sebastian Aho, Patrik Laine, Kasperi Kapanen and Mikko Rantanen. In fact, in 52 international contests, Puljujarvi has scored 53 points—albeit all at the junior level.
Eichel on the other hand has already suited up for a World Championship, helping Team USA to a bronze medal last spring. Eichel was one of the offensive weapons on that team, scoring seven points in ten games and trailing just Brock Nelson and Trevor Lewis for the team lead. He also starred at the World Juniors in his day, captaining the 2015 USA squad. He’ll join NHL players like Dylan Larkin, Jacob Trouba and Noah Hanifin at this year’s tournament.