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With the World Juniors beginning today, two San Jose Sharks prospects are representing their respective countries.
Forward Filip Bystedt is suiting up for Sweden, while Benjamin Gaudreau is playing for Canada. Below, we take a quick look at both prospects.
FILIP BYSTEDT - SWEDEN
Selected 27th overall by the Sharks in this year’s draft, Bystedt is one of San Jose’s top forward prospects. At just 18 years old, the forward has posted solid numbers in Sweden’s top professional league, scoring four goals and 11 points in 26 games so far.
The tournament couldn’t have started much better for Bystedt and Sweden, destroying Austria 11-0 this afternoon. He registered one goal and three points in the win and going forward, he should have an opportunity to shine on Sweden’s top line, playing alongside 2021 first-round pick Isak Rosen and projected 2023 top-10 pick Leo Carlsson.
BENJAMIN GAUDREAU - CANADA
While the tournament started well for Bystedt, the same can’t be said for Gaudreau.
Gaudreau had a disastrous opening game with Canada, starting against Czechia only to be pulled in the second period after allowing five goals.
It marks the first time the 2021 third-round pick is playing at the World Juniors, currently in his final year of eligibility. With the Sarnia Sting this season, his numbers have been underwhelming at best, posting an .868 save percentage through 22 games.
With such a strong roster, it’ll be a key storyline as to how Canada's goaltending will perform going forward.
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