Blackhawks Daily: US, Canada Ready For WJC Summer Showcase

The Chicago Blackhawks and the rest of the NHL will see a lot of their top prospects play in the World Junior Championships Showcase this summer. Some of these kids will make the team and some will not. 

Team USA and Team Canada both revealed their rosters already. There is a lot of talent on both sides and it should be a ton of fun to watch. 

There is some Chicago flavor in there. Oliver Moore was selected to represent them and the University of Minnesota with USA Hockey. He is a borderline lock to make the team and could even be a leader. 

A few 2025 NHL Draft-eligible players are in the mix to keep an eye on as well. That includes James Hagens who may be the number one pick after his freshman year at Boston College is done. 

Gavin McKenna, who is likely to be the first overall pick in 2026 (and Connor Bedard’s cousin through marriage), is not attending the event. He is, however, going to be considered for the tournament in the winter. 

Wondering why Gavin McKenna isn't a part of Canada's World Junior Summer Showcase?

It's because he'll be skating with Canada's U18 club for the Hlinka

Speaking with someone close to the situation, McKenna is on track to have an excellent chance to be on the WJC team in Ottawa

— Cam Robinson (@Hockey_Robinson) July 16, 2024

Chicago may not be bad enough again to get Hagens or McKenna but every organization should have their eyes on them just in case. The World Junior Summer Showcase is a great spot for these players to show off their skills which are off the charts. 

Other NHL teams will be excited to see their prospects showcased as well. These kids are the future of the league. 

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National Hockey Now

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Team Canada has invited the top Pittsburgh Penguins prospect to the WJC Showcase.

San Jose Hockey Now: San Jose Sharks President Jonathan Beecher talked to SJHN about Macklin Celebrini and why it took them so long to rebuild.

Boston Hockey Now: Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins is amongst the early favorites to win the Vezina Trophy.