It is that time of year where hockey fans can get a glimpse of the future. The United States look to defend their title and 5th attempt to be back-to-back champions.
Luke Hughes, D (United States)
The 2021 NHL fourth overall draft pick will look to showcase his talents on the world stage for Team USA. Luke Hughes, 18 year old little brother of Quinn and Jack Hughes, can play both ends of the ice. Expect him to spend time on special teams both power play and penalty kill. Hughes will not have the pressure to be “the guy… on defense similar to his situation at Michigan with Owen Power.
My Take: I think this will be a good experience for Hughes and he’ll raise eye brows throughout the tournament. He’ll have some good moments and Devils fans will be begging for Hughes to come to New Jersey but will return back to Michigan.
Alexander Holtz, F (Sweden)
Holtz will be looked upon to lead Team Sweden and this will be his third tour of duty. He has seen action at the NHL level with the New Jersey Devils this season and has had a successful run with their AHL affiliate Utica Comets with six goals with 4 assists, total of 10 points.
My Take: Last year, it was Lucas Raymond and Holtz. This year, it will be William Eklund and Holtz looking to give Team Sweden an offensive boost. Look to Holtz to perform and get results to help his country medal this year.
Shakir Mukhammadulin, D (Russia)
The surprise 2020 NHL Draft pick (20th overall) by Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald will get another chance to showcase his talents on the world stage. Mukhammadulin will be certainly getting more playing time than last year.
My Take: The man of mystery will be a mystery no more. I think he will surprise us all and will be a project. But the reward in the end will benefit the New Jersey Devils for years to come!
Jakub Mà¡lek, G (Czechia)
The 100th overall fourth round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft will be in between the pipes for Team Czechia. Has decent size and plays aggressive like all young goaltenders Tom Fitzgerald has picked.
My Take: Don’t know much about him. But we’ll find out soon today when Czechia plays Canada!
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Sam Woo is co-host and executive producer of the Let's Go Devils Podcast which can be heard live every Sunday at 9pm ET and Wednesday at 8:30pm ET.
You can follow Sam on Twitter: @PrimetimeSamWoo