Players Who Should Be Locks For Team Canada’s 2026 WJC Roster – The Hockey Writers –

Team Canada has just announced its final roster for the 2025 World Junior Hockey Championships in Ottawa. Every year, Canada and the United States face a difficult decision as they have a wide range of talent to choose from. This year was no exception.

Players like Easton Cowen, Calum Ritchie, Sam Dickinson, and Porter Martone made the team, as many expected, given their strong seasons. However, some notable names were cut from camp and didn’t make the team, and players like Andrew Cristall and Carter Yakemchuk will not be eligible to play next year because they will age out of the tournament. Here’s a look at some notable players who didn’t make the cut but should be a lock to make next year’s team.

Michael Misa – Center/Left-Wing, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Michael Misa is one of the most surprising omissions. Since being granted exceptional player status for the 2022-23 season, Misa has garnered significant attention at only 17 years old. After two strong junior seasons, including a Memorial Cup victory in 2024, he has taken on greater offensive responsibilities this season with the Saginaw Spirit, especially after several players graduated from the junior ranks. 

Through 29 games, Misa has 30 goals and 31 assists, and he has the potential to be among the few 2025 Draft-eligible players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) to reach 70 goals. He leads the team in goals, assists, and points and the OHL in goals and points. Misa has shown his willingness to engage physically over the past two seasons, and this year, he has taken his game to another level.

He arrived with a sturdier and more developed frame, significantly enhancing his effectiveness on the forecheck and in the gritty areas of the ice. Additionally, he has demonstrated that he can excel in all situations, making him one of the Spirit’s top players in every aspect of the game, including both special teams. His shot has the potential to be elite, along with his playmaking abilities.

Misa possesses a very high hockey IQ and consistently makes the right play with the puck. His creativity, combined with an exceptional skill set and a keen sense for scoring, allows him to skate well while demonstrating the patience and poise needed to elevate the performance of his teammates.

He has strong hands and can easily connect with his fellow players by identifying open lanes and delivering quick,…