Three players to watch at the world juniors

Folks, let me tell you, the world juniors are a magical time. Here are three players you should keep an eye on at this year's tournament.

1. Thomas Chabot - Canada

An Ottawa Senators prospect who started the year in the NHL, Chabot plays with the QMJHL's Saint John Sea Dogs.

2. Mathieu Joseph - Canada

This speedy two-way forward has an impressive 25 goals in 29 games this season. He plays with the QMJHL's Saint John Sea Dogs.

3. Jakub Zboril - Czech Republic

Entering his second World Junior Hockey Championship, Zboril plays with the QMJHL's Saint John Sea Dogs.

Both Canada and the Czech Republic begin tournament play on Boxing Day.

Canada will take on Switzerland tonight in Toronto in a pre-competition game. Game time is 8 p.m. and the match can be seen on TSN. The Czech Republic, meanwhile, will take on the Unites States tthis evening in Kingston.

Photos: Marc Henwood/Station Nation