The 2015 World Juniors kick off today in Montreal and Toronto, with four Columbus prospects taking part- Sonny Milano and Ryan Collins for the US, Oliver Bjorkstrand for Denmark and Dillon Heatherington for Canada.
Here’s a look at today’s schedule:
Denmark vs. Russia – 1:00pm ET
Finland vs. USA – 3:00pm ET
Sweden vs. Czech Republic – 5:00pm ET
Canada vs. Slovakia – 8:00pm ET
Bjorkstrand will pair with Winnipeg first rounder Nikolaj Ehlers to lead the Danish attack, but they’ll be in tough to avoid regulation in this tournament. They face a tough test right off the bat with the Russians, who will always be among the favorites to win the tourny.
Milano and Collins are part of a strong American squad, but they face the defending champion Finns this afternoon. This has the making of an entertaining game, and though the American roster is highlighted by Jack Eichel and Auston Matthews, Milano is an electrifying talent who has the potential to make the highlight reel on a regular basis.
Heatherington is the seventh defenseman for Canada, but unlike the NHL all seven defenders dress, so Heatherington will rotate in regularly. He plays a shutdown role for Canada.
NHL Network will broadcast all Team USA games in the States, while TSN has full coverage in Canada. NHL.com will also stream the Team USA games.