The U20 World Junior Championships start on December 26th, and camps have already started to determine the final rosters that will be heading to Buffalo this year. USA, Canada, Russia, Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belarus and Switzerland will have dozens of scouts keeping a close eye on the next wave of hockey stars, as they do battle in what has turned into one of the premiere international tournaments available.
This year, the World Juniors will be followed by the Olympic Games in February. With the NHL not allowing their players to head to the tournament, rosters are filled with former prospects and older professionals looking to represent their country one last time. Many have expressed outrage at the NHL’s decision, but many others have a new excitement over the tournament. Some of the best Olympic hockey moments in history were performed by amateurs, and though this tournament will be filled mostly by European professionals, it could have its fair share of intrigue.
So which will you watch with more fervor? Which would you stay up late to watch? What tournament are you more excited for? Vote below and make sure to share your feelings in the comments section.
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Olympics hands down. This is the year for the Bhutan national team.
I dunno man, Zimbabwe have some hella speed on the wings.
I’d pick the World Juniors over the Olympics even if NHL players were in it.
Best tournament of the year besides the Stanley Cup playoffs.