With the World Juniors rapidly approaching, Team USA needed to make a final round of cuts to prepare its 25-man roster. With Ryan Leonard, Jack Devine, Shai Buium and Tyler Muszelik sent home, the 25-man roster has been settled. Team USA will begin its tournament taking on Latvia on Dec. 26. The players are as follows:
Goaltenders (3)
Defensemen (8)
Forwards (14)
This team is likely to be highlighted by a first line comprised entirely of highly drafted NHL prospects. The trio of top 2022 picks — Gauthier, Cooley and Snuggerud — could be a treat to watch, and the Americans’ depth at forward combined with their talented blueliners — such as Hughes, Hutson and Chesley — should make this team a strong contender for a medal. While the situation in the crease is a bit less stable, the WJC will provide twice-undrafted goalie Mbereko a major stage to showcase why he should be picked next year.
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