A brief look at the tournament
If you are a hockey fan, this is likely your favourite time of the year. The NHL playoffs are in full swing, and there are enough upsets, unsung heroes, and highlight reel moments to keep you glued to your television, radio, tablet, or other device. But it must be remembered that the playoffs are not the only branch of elite hockey being played right now. This year, the top tier hockey nations converge in Prague and Ostrava, Czech Republic for the International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship. Fifteen other countries are vying to replace Russia as the reigning tournament champions.
Team Canada, led by captain Sidney Crosby and featuring the likes of Dan Hamhuis, Mike Smith and Matt Duchene (all members of the Sochi gold medal winning team), has played well so far. Through six games they are undefeated, including a strong 6-4 comeback victory against Sweden, and a 10-0 drubbing of Germany. With these wins, Canada clinched first place in pool A. Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle lead the way with eight points each. Aaron Ekblad has also been particularly impressive thus far.
Team USA also features a young prospect showing he can compete at the highest level. Jack Eichel, the eighteen-year-old from Boston University anticipated to be the number two pick in the upcoming NHL draft behind Connor McDavid. Young defensemen Seth Jones of the Nashville Predators and Jake Gardiner of the Maple Leafs also play for team USA, who have successfully qualified for the quarter-finals.
Finally, the most followed player at this tournament is none other than hometown boy Jaromir Jagr. The forty-three-year-old Czech forward is the oldest player in the tournament, but his age certainly isn’t showing, as he has averaged a point per game thus far – continuing to dazzle with his creative passing and timely goals.
The quarterfinals take place on May 14, with the finals being play on May 17. The world championships may lack the fights, the duration, and the beards of the NHL playoffs, but there is no loss in the caliber of skill, or the enthusiasm for Canada’s game.