Quarterfinal matchups set at world juniors

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The quarterfinal matchups are set at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Following the final day of preliminary round play on Saturday, Monday's quarterfinals will feature Finland taking on Sweden, Czechia facing Switzerland, the United Sates battling Germany and Canada taking on Slovakia.

Here's a brief look at Saturday's action...

• Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland pulled off a 4-3 (lengthy) shootout victory over Slovakia in Moncton. The Swiss were trailing 3-1 in the third but scored twice to send the match to extra time. Despont did not play at all in the game but was surprisingly used as Switzerland's third shooter in the shootout. He fired wide on his attempt.
• All three of Switzerland's victories in the preliminary round came in extra time. They finished fourth in a wild Group B.
• Team Canada had a statement 5-1 win over Sweden in Halifax, securing second spot in Group A. Former Sea Dogs forward Joshua Roy had a goal in the win.
• The other games saw Czechia beat Germany 8-1 in Halifax and the United States down Finland 6-2 in Moncton.
• Saturday's attendance figures: noon - 4,849; 2:30 p.m. - 8,454; 5 p.m. - 8,231; and 7:30 p.m. - 10,301.
• If you're attending world junior games in Halifax, be careful where you park. CTV Atlantic reports on the uptick in parking tickets during the tournament (and if you want to avoid this problem by parking at Scotia Square, do not expect a quick exit).
• At the Spengler Cup on Saturday, Ostap Safin and HC Sparta Praha lost the championship game by score of 3-2 in a shootout to HC Ambri-Piotta. 

Recap: Sea Dogs lose 4-1

FINAL: Moncton 4, Saint John 1

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - A three-goal third period pushed the Moncton Wildcats past the Saint John Sea Dogs on Saturday afternoon at TD Station.

Moncton scored three times within the first 4:32 of the final frame - including two goals in a 12-second span - to carry them to a 4-1 victory on New Year's Eve.

Charles Beaudoin, Preston Lounsbury, Maxim Barbashev and Oscar Plandowski scored for Moncton. Jacob Steinman made 24 saves in the win, holding a shutout until the final 2:05 of the game.

Olivier Brideau, making his first start on home ice, made a few huge stops in the first two periods to keep Saint John either tied or within one of Moncton. The netminder made 42 saves in the loss.

Nico Laforge scored Saint John's only goal.

The Sea Dogs had difficulty creating high quality scoring chances in this contest. Some of their best chances came on power plays but the team just couldn't finish on their opportunities, finishing 0/3 on the man advantage. Saint John's lone lone goal was a shorthanded marker late in the third.

Game Day 34: vs Wildcats

SAINT JOHN - The Saint John Sea Dogs close out the calendar year with a Saturday afternoon contest against the Moncton Wildcats.

The Sea Dogs had a three-game winning streak snapped last night in Bathurst, falling 6-3. The Wildcats, meanwhile, were also on the road last night, earning a 6-2 win over the Charlottetown Islanders. Both teams will have a quick turnaround for this afternoon's contest.

Today's game will feature one of the biggest crowds at TD Station this season. The band "Wannabe: A Spice Girls Tribute Act" will perform at both intermissions.

Game time today is 2 p.m.

TV/Radio/Stream: None/93 CFBC/CHL TV

2022-23 regular season records: The Sea Dogs are 12-19-1-1 for 26 points (sixth Maritimes/10th Eastern/18th QMJHL) while the Wildcats are 17-14-0-2 for 36 points (second Maritimes/sixth Eastern/ninth QMJHL).

Last games: The Sea Dogs are coming off a 6-3 loss in Bathurst last night. Alexis Cournoyer, Eriks Mateiko and Connor Trenholm all scored for Saint John. Ventsislav Shingarov made 39 stops in the loss. The Wildcats are coming off a 6-2 win in Charlottetown last night. Maxim Barbashev, Alexis Daniel, Yoan Loshing, Adam Fortier-Gendron, Vincent Labelle and Gabe Smith scored for Moncton. Vincent Filion made 20 saves in the win.

Recap: Sea Dogs lose 6-3

FINAL: Saint John 3, Bathurst 6

Bryannah James/Acadie-Bathurst Titan

BATHURST - The Saint John Sea Dogs let a 2-0 first period lead slip away in a 6-3 loss to the Acadie-Bathurst Titan on Friday.

The Titan scored four times and outshot the Sea Dogs 21-11 in the second period. Riley Kidney had a goal and two assists in the frame. Despite the lopsided second, the Sea Dogs entered the third only behind 4-3. Bathurst scored a power play goal midway through the third and then added an empty net goal to secure the win.

Alexandre Lallier scored a pair of goals while other singles came from Joseph Henneberry, Dylan Andrews and Ben Allison. Joshua Flemming made 23 saves in the win.

The Titan were without Seattle Kraken prospect Jacob Melanson who was a healthy scratch, presumably due to an imminent trade.

The Sea Dogs had a three-game winning streak snapped with the loss. Alexis Cournoyer, Eriks Mateiko and Connor Trenholm scored for Saint John. Ventsislav Shingarov made another start and had another busy night, making 39 saves in the loss.

Notebook: Highly anticipated "Spice Up Your Game" takes place Saturday

SAINT JOHN - One of the most hyped games of the season takes place Saturday at TD Station.

The Saint John Sea Dogs will host the Moncton Wildcats in a 2 p.m. contest that will feature intermission performances by Wannabe: A Spice Girls Tribute.

"TD Station will be the place to be for an afternoon of hockey, music, and fun, as Wannabe: A Spice Girls Tribute perform during both intermissions," reads a Sea Dogs news release. "A 2 p.m. start time means the whole family can enjoy great hockey and fun performances before the ball drops on NYE."

According to the team, "lower bowl seating is officially limited and there are less than 1,000 total seats remaining."

Door will open at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday.

This will be the first time the Sea Dogs have played on New Year's Eve since 2019 due to COVID restrictions.

HURTUBISE'S FUTURE

Cam MacDonald stole the headlines Wednesday when the Sea Dogs made him a late healthy scratch. But overage netminder Nikolas Hurtubise was also a healthy scratch for the game.

Dealing Hurtubise, a President Cup and Memorial Cup champion, isn't simple due to his age. Given the crowded overage goalie market and some injury issues this season, there are certainly some questions about his immediate future.

La retraite de la @LHJMQ devrais-je ajouter... Surveillez les alignements @LHJAAAQ1 prochainement.👀 https://t.co/207uhcEVXD

— jf plante (@jfplante_Droit) December 29, 2022

Sea Dogs president and general manager Trevor Georgie told the Telegraph-Journal (paywall) that "Nik would like the opportunity to challenge for a championship again."

Hurtubise suffered an injury in the off-season and has played in just 11 games with Saint John this season. He posted a 14-4 record to go along with a 2.88 goals against average and a .897 save percentage in the second half with the Sea Dogs last season. After appearing in just one playoff game, he was excellent for Saint John at the Memorial Cup.

Updated: MacDonald traded to Gatineau

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

Cam MacDonald is expected to be traded to the Gatineau Olympiques, according to a report.

JF Plante of the Gatineau newspaper Le Droit reports that the Sea Dogs will trade MacDonald to the Olympiques in exchange for a first- and second-round pick.

Confirmé. Les @OlympiquesGAT échangent un choix de 1re ronde et 2e ronde (Landry) pour obtenir Cameron MacDonald, un choix du @TBLightning. https://t.co/l8eWFIcWGB

— jf plante (@jfplante_Droit) December 30, 2022

The Telegraph-Journal (paywall) is also reporting the deal.

UPDATED: The deal has been confirmed by the QMJHL. The Sea Dogs have received a first-round (Gatineau) and second-round (Drummondville) pick in 2024 in exchange for MacDonald.

MacDonald was expected to be dealt during the trade period and that speculation heightened on Wednesday night when he was a late scratch by the Sea Dogs.

The 19-year-old has proven to be quite literally a two-way player, suiting up as both a forward and a defenseman this season. He has 16 goals and 13 assists in 27 games this year, which includes four goals and four assists in his final three games before the holiday break. He also had a hat trick against Gatineau in October.

A third-round pick of Saint John in the 2019 QMJHL Entry Draft, MacDonald has 41 goals and 39 assists in 124 career QMJHL games spread out over three seasons.

MacDonald was a fifth-round pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2021 NHL Draft but has not been signed. There is a chance he could be back in the QMJHL for his overage season next year.

The Olympiques have made a number of deals during the holiday trade period and are clearly looking to make a long playoff run. Gatineau sits second in the Western Conference wth 45 points, five back of the surprising Victoriaville Tigres.

The Sea Dogs visit Gatineau on Feb. 4.

The QMJHL's holiday trade period ends on Jan. 6.

Game Day 33: at Bathurst

BATHURST - The Saint John Sea Dogs are back on the road tonight, visiting the Acadie-Bathurst Titan.

The Sea Dogs opened their second half schedule with a 4-3 shootout win over the Charlottetown Islanders on Wednesday at TD Station. The Sea Dogs let a late 3-1 lead slip away but managed to secure the win in a shootout.

The Titan had a rough welcome back from the holiday break, falling 6-1 to the Halifax Mooseheads on Wednesday. Riley Kidney and Jacob Melanson, who are wanted players this trade season, both played in that game.

Game time tonight at the KC Irving Regional Centre is 7 p.m.

TV/Radio/Stream: None/93 CFBC/CHL TV

2022-23 regular season records: The Sea Dogs are 12-18-1-1 for 26 points (sixth Maritimes/10th Eastern/18th QMJHL) while the Titan are 13-16-3-2 for 31 points (third Maritimes/sixth Eastern/13th QMJHL).

Last games: The Sea Dogs are coming off a 4-3 shootout win over the Charlottetown Islanders on Wednesday. Noah Reinhart, Vince Elie and Peter Reynolds scored for Saint John. Ventsislav Shingarov made 35 saves in the win. The Titan are coming off a 6-1 home loss to the Halifax Mooseheads on Wednesday. Nolan Forster scored Bathurst's lone goal. Joshua Flemming made 33 saves in the loss.

Swiss fall to US at world juniors; Canada eliminated from Spengler Cup

Hockey Canada

Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland suffered their first loss of the IIHF World Junior Championship on Thursday while Chris DiDomenico and Team Canada are heading home from the Spengler Cup.

How do you get @SwissIceHockey FIRED UP? You get Vincent Despont to read the starting line-up#WorldJuniors @SJSeaDogs pic.twitter.com/hHLYNrSVQ9

— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) December 29, 2022

Here's a look at Thursday's international action...

• The United States outshot Switzerland 42-19 in a 5-1 victory over Switzerland in Moncton. Sea Dogs defenseman Vincent Despont saw quite an increase in ice time, playing 12:38. The Swiss sit third in Group B with four points heading into their preliminary round finale against Slovakia on Saturday afternoon.
• After a slow start, Team Canada had little trouble with Austria, winning 11-0. Former Sea Dogs forward Joshua Roy had a goal and two assists in the win. Canada will face a big a test on New Year's Eve in Halifax when they take on Sweden.
• Thursday's other games saw Finland shutout Latvia 3-0 in Moncton and Sweden earn a key 3-2 overtime win over Czechia in Halifax.
• Thursday attendance numbers: 12 p.m. - 4,081; 2:30 p.m. - 9,140; 5 p.m. - 7,024; and 7:30 p.m. - 10,170.
• At the Spengler Cup, Chris DiDomenico scored in Canada's 3-1 quarterfinal loss to Orebro HK, eliminating them from the tournament with an 0-3 record. The goal was DiDomenico's first and only point of the tournament.
• Joona Lehmus and IFK Helsinki were also eliminated from the Spengler Cup on Thursday, falling 3-2 to host HC Davos in quarterfinal play. On Friday, Ostap Safin and HC Sparta Praha take on Orebro HK in the first semifinal.

WHAT A MOVE! WHAT A FINISH!

Chris DiDomenico brings Canada within 1. #SpenglerCup pic.twitter.com/OsYhboqDgA

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 29, 2022

Wednesday night notes: MacDonald a healthy scratch in Sea Dogs win

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - Cam MacDonald was a late healthy scratch for the Saint John Sea Dogs on Wednesday night.

MacDonald, who has been used a defenseman for the past couple weeks, was originally listed on Saint John's top defense pairing with Nate Tivey. But the 19-year-old was later classified as a healthy scratch.

Given that this is trade season in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the move is quite noteworthy.

MacDonald would likely get the biggest return of any of Saint John's veteran players. In his third season in the QMJHL, MacDonald has 16 goals and 13 assists in 27 games. He had four goals and four assists in his final three games before the league's holiday break.

A fifth-round pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2021 NHL Draft, there's a possibility MacDonald could return to junior hockey for his overage season in 2023-24. He has not been signed by the Lightning.

20-year-old goaltender Nikolas Hurtubise, who has battled injuries all season, was also listed as a healthy scratch by the Sea Dogs on Wednesday.

The QMJHL's trade deadline is Jan. 6. The Sea Dogs are back in action on Friday in Bathurst.

In other Wednesday news...

• Team Canada rebounded from their opening night loss at the IIHF World Junior Championship, hammering Germany 11-2 in Halifax. Former Sea Dogs forward Joshua Roy had a goal and an assist in the win while Regina Pats forward Connor Bedard recorded seven points. Canada plays Austria on Thursday night.
• Group B, playing in Moncton, remains wild with Slovakia pulling off a 6-3 upset win over the United States. Peter Repcik of the Charlottetown Islanders had a goal for Slovakia. Switzerland and Finland remain tied atop Group B with four points each.
• Wednesday attendance numbers: Slovakia/United States - 6,438 and Germany/Canada - 10,263.
• Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland take on the United States in Moncton on Thursday at 5 p.m.
• At the Spengler Cup Wednesday, former Sea Dogs forward Ostap Safin scored in HC Sparta Praha's big 9-2 win over HC Davos. In the earlier game, former Sea Dogs defenseman Joona Lehmas and IFK Helsinki fell 7-3 to HC Ambri-Piotti. Chris DiDomenico and Team Canada, who are 0-2 so far, take on Orebro HK in quarterfinal play on Thursday. The other quarterfinal matchup has HC Davos facing IFK Helsinki.

Defensemen have done an excellent job of generating offense and Prague has its second goal of the game.

Michal Moravcik's point shot was tipped in by Ostap Safin for the 2-0 goal. #SpenglerCup pic.twitter.com/JjFJVWz8Z9

— Steven Ellis (@SEllisHockey) December 28, 2022

Recap: Sea Dogs win 4-3 (SO)

FINAL: Charlottetown 3, Saint John 4 (SO)

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - The Saint John Sea Dogs kicked off the second half the same way they ended the first: on a winning note.

The Sea Dogs earned their third straight victory with a 4-3 shootout win over the Charlottetown Islanders on Wednesday at TD Station. The Islanders, meanwhile, have now dropped five straight games.

Noah Reinhart, Vince Elie and Peter Reynolds scored in regulation time for Saint John. Eriks Mateiko scored the only goal of the shootout, converting in the fourth round. Ventsislav Shingarov had another strong showing in net, making 35 saves in the victory (along with four stops in the shootout).

Saint John's power play, which has struggled this season, had a good night, going 2/7.

The Sea Dogs led 3-1 late in the third but the Islanders scored two goals in the final 2:22 to send the match into extra time.

Former Sea Dogs forward Simon Hughes along with Jeremie Biakabutuka and Michael Horth scored for Charlottetown. Tye Austin, making his Islanders debut, made 29 saves in the loss.

Game Day 32: vs Islanders

SAINT JOHN - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's holiday break comes to an end tonight with all 18 teams in action.

It's been a busy couple weeks for many teams with the league's holiday trade period in full swing. But it's been a quiet time for the Saint John Sea Dogs who have, somewhat surprisingly, yet to make a move of any kind.

The Sea Dogs return to action tonight with the same roster they had in their pre-Christmas finale on Dec. 17. Saint John's opponent this evening, the Charlottetown Islanders, have made a few moves, including the acquisition of former Sea Dogs forward Simon Hughes.

Game time tonight at TD Station is 7 p.m.

TV/Radio/Stream: None/93 CFBC/CHL TV

2022-23 regular season records: The Sea Dogs are 11-18-1-1 for 24 points (sixth Maritimes/10th Eastern/18th QMJHL) while the Islanders are 12-17-2-0 for 26 points (fourth Maritimes/eighth Eastern/15th QMJHL).

Last games: The Sea Dogs are coming off a 6-3 home win over the Cape Breton Eagles on Dec. 17. Cam MacDonald had a hat trick for Saint John while singles came from Eriks Mateiko, Alexis Cournoyer and Cole Burbidge. Ventsislav Shingarov made a career best 54 saves in the win. The Islanders are coming off a 7-2 home loss to the Halifax Mooseheads on Dec. 17. Keiran Gallant and Marcus Kearsey scored for Charlottetown. Niko Boudreau and Jack Flanagan took the loss in net.

Despont, Swiss win again at WJC

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland picked up their second win of the IIHF World Junior Championship on Tuesday.

Here's a quick recap of day two tournament action.

• Switzerland defeated Latvia 3-2 in a shootout at Avenir Centre, earning their second win of this year's tournament. The Swiss were down 2-1 late in the third but scored in the final two minutes to send the match to extra time and eventually a shootout.
• Despont, who was once again Switzerland's seventh defenseman, had 5:02 of ice time in the game, which was a bit more than he played in the opener. He took an interference penalty in the first period.
• The Swiss have two wins but have only earned four of a possible six points because both of their victories came in extra time. They are tied with Finland atop Group B.
• Tuesday's other Group B game in Moncton saw Finland down Slovakia 5-2.
• In Group A action in Halifax, Sweden hung on for a 1-0 win over Germany before Czechia defeated Austria 9-0. 
• TSN's Craig Button, who was unable to make it to Moncton for Monday's action due to all the travel/weather chaos, was in the broadcast booth on Tuesday.
• Always cool to see the crowds get behind the underdog teams. The Halifax crowd was really pushing hard for an Austrian goal in the third period.
• The Toronto Star correctly notes that the Halifax airport is too far from... anything.
• The IIHF website has a story on Moncton Wildcats Jonas Taibel and Miles Muller getting to play for Team Switzerland in their home arena.
• Day two attendance numbers: noon - 4,617; 2:30 p.m. - 7,632; 5 p.m. - 3,817; and 7:30 p.m. - 7,105.
• At the Spengler Cup, Chris DiDomenico and Team Canada fell to 0-2 with a 2-1 loss to HC Davos. The Canadians have Wednesday off to prepare for a quarterfinal on Thursday.
• Former Sea Dogs defenseman Joona Lehmas was in the IFK Helsinki lineup on Tuesday in their 5-2 loss to Orebro HK. Lehmus took a delay of game penalty in the loss.

There are only two games at the world juniors on Wednesday with the United States taking on Slovakia in Moncton at 5 p.m. and Canada facing Germany in Halifax at 7:30 p.m.

Lastly, here's Despont trading a puck for some candy.

Solid trade if you ask us 🤝#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/dkkLCrj6Pn

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 27, 2022

World juniors begin with two big upsets

MONCTON - The opening day of the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship featured a couple of unexpected results.

• The day started with Vincent Despont and Switzerland upsetting Finland 3-2 in overtime at Avenir Centre. Halifax Mooseheads captain Attilio Biasca scored the game-winner in the extra frame. Jonas Taibel of the Moncton Wildcats, playing in his home building, recorded two assists.
• Despont dressed as Switzerland's seventh defenseman and played just 4:31 in the game. Despite the limited ice time, he finished with a +2 rating.
• The second upset of the day came in the final game, which saw Czechia post a 5-2 victory over the heavily favoured Canadians at Scotiabank Centre. One of the major turning points in the match was when Gatineau Olympiques forward Zach Dean was given a five-minute major for a check-to-the-head, which Czechia scored twice on.
• Just a mess of a game for Canada. They return to action on Wednesday against Germany.
• Monday's other games had Sweden hammering Austria 11-0 and the United States edging Latvia 5-2.
• Day one attendance numbers: Noon - 4,465; 2:30 p.m. - 7,274; 5 p.m. - 4,927; and 7:30 p.m. - 10,030.
• The pucks at this year's world juniors have a microchip in them for puck tracking. Fans are being asked to return the puck in exchange for a non-microchipped version when the object flies into the seating area.
• The IIHF website has a rather interesting list of 23 things to do in Moncton and Halifax during this year's tournament.
• At the Spengler Cup, Chris DiDomenico and Team Canada opened the tournament with a 3-2 loss to HC Sparta Praha. Ostap Safin was in the lineup for the Czech side. DiDomenico will wear an 'A' for Canada at the Spengler, it was announced Sunday.

Tuesday will feature four games at the world juniors. In Moncton, Finland will face Slovakia at noon and Switzerland will take on Latvia at 5 p.m. In Halifax, Germany faces Sweden at 2:30 p.m. and Austria battles Czechia at 7:30 p.m.

At the Spengler Cup Tuesday, Canada takes on HC Davos at 3:15 p.m. Atlantic.

Notebook: Despont named to Swiss roster

Hockey Canada

Saint John Sea Dogs defenseman Vincent Despont has officially been named to Switzerland's roster for the IIHF World Junior Championship in Halifax and Moncton.

The Swiss announced their final cuts on Saturday. Despont is one of eight defensemen to make the squad.

There are a number of QMJHL players representing Switzerland, including Halifax's Attilio Biasca and Moncton's Miles Muller and Jonas Taibel.

🏒🇨🇭 Unser Roster für die #WorldJuniors in Halifax & Moncton 🇨🇦.

L'équipe suisse pour les Mondiaux Juniors, qui commencent lundi. 💪

📋 https://t.co/zWnZAd9j5g pic.twitter.com/Qiy1ikmZ7Z

— Swiss Ice Hockey (@SwissIceHockey) December 24, 2022

The 19-year-old Despont recorded one assist in five games at the 2022 tournament in Edmonton.

The Swiss lost their pre-tournament opener 6-0 to Canada on Monday but rebounded with a 4-2 win over Czechia and a 4-3 overtime victory over Sweden. They begin the event on Monday in Moncton, facing Finland at noon.

DESPONT'S FUTURE

Swiss Hockey News is reporting that at least a couple pro teams in Switzerland are interested in adding Despont. It's not quite clear if the report is referring to this season or next.

"Everything in its own time. Right now, there are the World Juniors [to focus on]," Despont told La Liberté, via Swiss Hockey News. "After that, I will talk with my agent. I'm thinking of going back to Switzerland to play professionally. If that does not work out, I have the option of staying in Canada."

Despont, 19, is in his second season with the Sea Dogs, recording three goals and five assists in 27 games.

MOOSE ADD MORE SCORING

The Halifax Mooseheads shouldn't have any trouble scoring when the QMJHL season resumes on Dec. 28.

A few weeks after adding Josh Lawrence, the Mooseheads acquired 20-year-old forward Alexandre Doucet from the Val-d'Or Foreurs in exchange for three drafts picks. Doucet leads the league in goals with 27 and is second in points with 53.

“He’s a game-changer," said Mooseheads general manager Cam Russell in a news release. "We think this trade gives us one of the best players in the league this season and makes our lineup even more dangerous than it already was."

The Mooseheads now have the league's top-two scorers in Doucet (53 points) and Jordan Dumais (61 points) to go along with Lawrence (43 points), Mathieu Cataford (44 points) and others.

DiDomenico to play in Spengler Cup again

Spengler Cup

Chis DiDomenico will try and win a fourth Spengler Cup championship with Team Canada next week.

The former Saint John Sea Dogs forward has once again been named to the Canadian squad that will play in the annual tournament in Davos, Switzerland. This will be the first time the tournament has been held since 2019 due to the pandemic.

Canada won the 2019 tournament that saw DiDomenico record a goal and two assists in four games. This will be the sixth time the 33-year-old has played for Canada at the event. He's recorded a total of four goals and 10 assists in 19 career Spengler Cup matches.

DiDomenico is playing with SC Bern in the Swiss league this year where he's recorded 14 goals and 33 points in 26 games. He's on pace to have one of the best offensive seasons of his professional career.

The Woodbridge, Ontario native spent two-and-a-half seasons with the Sea Dogs from 2006 to 2009. He still holds the franchise record for most points by a rookie (75 points in 2006-07).

The six-team tournament begins on Boxing Day and concludes on New Year's Eve. Canada's first game is on Monday against HC Sparta Praha. Games can be watched on TSN.

DiDomenico might not be the only ex-Sea Dog to skate in the tournament. HC Sparta Praha's roster includes forward Ostap Safin (61 games with Saint John in 2017-18) and IFK Helsinki features defenseman Joona Lehmus (55 games with Saint John in 2019-20).

Team Canada departs for Halifax

MONCTON - Team Canada's time in New Brunswick has come to a close.

After holding selection camp in Moncton, training camp in St. Stephen and a pair of pre-tournament games at the Avenir Centre, Canada will spend the remainder of this year's IIHF World Junior Championship in Halifax.

Canada played their final game in Moncton on Wednesday night, defeating Slovakia 6-1. QMJHLers Zach Dean (Gatineau Olympiques) and Joshua Roy (Sherbrooke Phoenix) scored in the victory.

Captain Shane Wright, who unfortunately scored on his own net, spoke to the Moncton crowd after the match.

Thank you, Moncton! 👏

🎙 Hear from Shane Wright after 🇨🇦 wrapped up its pre-tournament games in New Brunswick.
#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/3d4b6mJUU5

— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) December 22, 2022

“All the support from the fans in Moncton has been incredible," Wright said after the game. "They have been cheering us on since we got here, and as players we love that. It is nice to be on home soil and have Canadian fans cheering us on. It was a nice touch to be able to say thank you to the fans at the end of the game, and we just wanted to let the fans know how much we appreciate the support.”

Canada concludes pre-tournament play on Friday at Scotiabank Centre, taking on Finland. They begin the tournament on Boxing Day against Czechia.

A few other notes...

• CBC has details on the contract signed between the New Brunswick government and Hockey Canada. New Brunswick is spending $1.25 million to co-host the world juniors, reports CBC, "but Hockey Canada may have to repay some of that money if any Hockey Canada representatives involved with the event are found to have engaged in 'unethical' or 'illegal' conduct before the tournament ends on Jan. 5."
• Like Monday's Team Canada game, the Avenir Centre was packed Wednesday night. But announced attendance for Wednesday's match was only 7,830. The first Wildcats game in the building in 2018 had an announced crowd of 8,800.
• Despite the big crowds, there wasn't much of an atmosphere at Avenir Centre for either Team Canada game. It's too bad COVID robbed us all of a Wildcats 2020 playoff run - we would have seen what this building is capable of.
• Maybe I've officially become a #boomer, but does anyone else miss paper programs? I get that digital only is a cheaper and more environmentally friendly option, but having, at the very least, a sheet of paper with names and numbers makes for an easier viewing experience. Maybe I'm in the minority on this one - I don't know. I'd much rather watch a game like Wednesday's United States/Sweden game, where I don't know who is who, with a roster sheet in front of me rather than unlocking my phone and zooming in on a roster every few whistles.
• Austria defeated Germany 4-3 in overtime on the StFX campus on Tuesday. After spending a week in town, the Austrian team skated around the rink with a "thank you Antigonish" sign after the game.

Notebook: Q players shine in Canada win

MONCTON - Quebec Major Junior Hockey League players impressed in Team Canada's 6-0 pre-tournament win over Switzerland on Monday night at Avenir Centre.

Canada's third line of Joshua Roy (Sherbrooke), Nathan Gaucher (Quebec) and Zach Dean (Gatineau) created Canada's first two goals in the 6-0 victory.

“[Dean, Gaucher and Roy] set the tone for us," said Canada head coach Dennis Williams after the game. "They were grinding their opponents, working together and feeding off each other. [Establishing chemistry] is never an issue when you come to an event like this. Everyone is coming from across the country and different leagues, but we are all here for a common goal. It’s one team and one country, and you could see a lot of that chemistry on all our lines tonight.”

A few other notes from the game...

• There is clear chemistry between Shane Wright and Connor Bedard on Canada's top line. Wright had two goals and an assist while Bedard had three helpers.
• Roy is one of four players on Team Canada who was a first overall pick in a CHL league draft. Roy was taken first overall by Saint John in the 2019 QMJHL Entry Draft.
• Switzerland featured an all-QMJHL top line of Attilio Biasca (Halifax), Jonas Taibel (Moncton) and Louis Robin (Val-d'Or).
• There were loud cheers for Taibel and fellow Wildcat Miles Muller when the rosters were announced in the building.
• Sea Dogs defenseman Vincent Despont was listed on Switzerland's fourth pairing (all players were permitted to dress). He didn't play a ton.

Canada faces Simon Nemec and Slovakia in pre-tournament play on Wednesday in Moncton. Nemec was taken second overall by the New Jersey Devils in this year's NHL Draft. He was also selected fourth overall by the Cape Breton Eagles in the 2021 CHL Import Draft.

BIG CROWDS AND LINES

The qplex in Quispamsis was packed for Monday's world junior pre-tournament game between the United States and Finland. The US won 5-2 on the strength of three second period goals.

Packed house in the QPlex tonight as the United States plays Finland for or-tournament action ahead of the World Junior Hockey Championship #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/pGARYnvzUB

— Matthew Daigle (@MatthewDaigle17) December 19, 2022

In Moncton on Monday, the Avenir Centre was packed (or very close to it) for the first of two Canada pre-tournament games that will be held at the venue. There were long lines outside the building prior to doors opening which... were kind of solved by people getting out of the line and walking around to different entrances.

Line goes all the way to the big garage doors in the back of the building pic.twitter.com/gRdiAyOMLE

— Jamie Tozer (@station_nation) December 19, 2022

The full schedule for Moncton's "World Juniors Community Festival" can be found online.

Some numbers from the first half

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

MONCTON - The Saint John Sea Dogs enter the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's holiday break outside the playoff picture.

The Sea Dogs sit last overall in the QMJHL standings with an 11-18-1-1 record for 24 points. If the playoffs started today, the Sea Dogs and Cape Breton Eagles would not qualify.

The good news for Saint John is that they are just two points back (and have played two fewer games) of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, the owners of the last playoff spot. The Armada have traded away many of their best players, something the Sea Dogs could also do in the coming weeks. The bottom of the standings could be in for an interesting finish.

As a reminder, the Sea Dogs traded away their first round pick in the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft, reducing the few benefits to finishing last.

Busy couple days of trades in QMJHL

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

MONCTON - Simon Hughes is back in the Maritimes.

The former Saint John Sea Dogs forward was traded to the Charlottetown Islanders by the Drummondville Voltigeurs on the opening day of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's holiday trading period. In exchange for Hughes, the Islanders sent two fourth-round picks to the Voltigeurs.

A Stratford, PEI native, Hughes has five goals and two assists in 30 games with Drummondville this season.

Hughes, a second-round pick of the Sea Dogs in the 2020 QMJHL Entry Draft, appeared in seven games with the club during the COVID impacted 2020-21 season. The Sea Dogs traded Hughes to Drummondville in the 2021 deal that acquired William Dufour.

Drummondville also swapped overagers with the Baie-Comeau Drakkar, dealing away captain Charles-Antoine Dumont in exchange for Xavier Fortin. Dumont was a sixth-round pick of Saint John in the 2018 QMJHL Entry Draft but never played a game with the club.

It's been a busy first two days of the holiday trading period - but the Sea Dogs have yet to make any transactions. The deadline is Friday, Jan. 6.

Here's a quick look at some of the more notable deals that have been made so far...

• On Monday, there was a surprise deal between the Islanders and Gatineau Olympiques that saw 20-year-old goaltender Francesco Lapenna dealt to Gatineau.
• The Moncton Wildcats traded Francesco Iasenza to the Victoriaville Tigres in exchange for draft picks. The Wildcats also dealt Thomas Darcy to the Quebec Remparts.
• The Chicoutimi Sagueneens traded Marc-Andre Gaudet to the Sherbrooke Phoenix for a bunch of picks.
• As was speculated for months, Val-d'Or Foreurs captain Justin Robidas was traded to Quebec.
• The Halifax Mooseheads traded James Swan to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada for a fourth-round pick in a deal that is believed to be connected to the Josh Lawrence transaction.
• The Cape Breton Eagles traded Francois-James Buteau to the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. The Eagles also dealt Justin Cote to the Tigres.
• The Armada traded Alexis Gendron, one of the league's leading goal scorers, to the Olympiques. The Armada are in sell mode after a rough first half. They also traded Zach Biggar to the Eagles.
• The Acadie-Bathurst Titan have yet to make any deals. This is their first holiday trading period under Gordie Dwyer.
• The full list of trades can be found on the QMJHL website.

Team Canada holds final St. Stephen practice

ST. STEPHEN, NB - The Canadian world junior team hit the Garcelon Civic Center ice one last time on Sunday morning.

The team has been holding practices in St. Stephen since Wednesday as they prepare for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Canada plays their first pre-tournament game on Monday night in Moncton when they face Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland.

The team spent quite a bit of time working on special teams Sunday. After practice, the team announced that Seattle Kraken forward Shane Wright will captain the team. Joining Wright on the leadership team are Ethan Del Mastro, Nathan Gaucher, Logan Stankoven and Dylan Guenther.

Practices were open to the public all week. Sunday's had what appeared to be the largest crowd with a couple hundred people or so in attendance.

Some other notes...

• The Globe and Mail (paywall) reported some new details on the alleged 2018 Hockey Canada group sexual assault.
• As Will and I discussed on The Hockey News on the Q this past week, the world junior ticket resale market is pretty wild.
• The Team USA website shares some details on the team's planned travels into Saint John on Sunday. The United States takes on Finland in world junior pre-tournament action on Monday in Quispamsis. That game is sold out.
• The ice at the Avenir Centre is looking world junior ready.
• What a goal from Moncton's Alex Mercier on Friday night.
• Kraken prospect Jacob Melanson had three goals and three assists in the Acadie-Bathurst Titan's 7-4 win over the Moncton Wildcats on Saturday.
• The QMJHL is now on its holiday break until Dec. 28.
• A number of OHL games were postponed on Saturday following the news that 18-year-old forward Abakar Kazbekov of the London Knights died suddenly that morning. CTV News London has further details on his death.

Burns, Georgie speak about suspension

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

ST. STEPHEN, NB - Brady Burns discussed his five-game suspension during the first intermission of Saturday's Saint John Sea Dogs game on 93 CFBC.

Burns was suspended five games on Friday for violating the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's anti-discrimination policy. In the interview, Burns told broadcaster John Moore that he didn't believe what he said broke any of the league's rules but is accepting of the suspension.

Below is the part of the interview where the suspension is discussed.

Burns noted that he was unaware he was given a game misconduct at the end of Friday's game until he was set to head home from the rink.

Sea Dogs president and general manager Trevor Georgie released the below statement during Saturday's game.

The Saint John Sea Dogs have released the following statement regarding the five-game suspension announced by the QMJHL earlier today: pic.twitter.com/dyXtHJIsbx

— Saint John Sea Dogs (@SJSeaDogs) December 18, 2022

Burns, Saint John's leading scorer, served the first game of his suspension Saturday. He is eligible to return on Jan. 6 when the Sea Dogs host the Halifax Mooseheads.

QMJHL holiday trading period opens today

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

ST. STEPHEN, NB - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's holiday trading period opens today and quite a few rumoured/reported/speculated deals are expected to be made official.

Some, like Val-d'Or Foreurs captain Justin Robidas being dealt to the Quebec Remparts, have been rumoured for months. A number of trades like this one should be confirmed at some point today.

Plusieurs partisans ont quitté le Centre Agnico Eagle, mais ceux qui sont restés réservent un élan de d’applaudissements envers Justin Robidas, qui sera un membre des #Remparts dans les prochaines heures. #LHJMQ pic.twitter.com/i7NIfTF2c0

— Pierre-Olivier Poulin (@P_OPoulin) December 17, 2022

As usual, the QMJHL's top five teams in the standings - Quebec, (surprisingly) Victoriaville, Halifax, Gatineau and Sherbrooke - are expected to be doing much of the buying this year.

The Saint John Sea Dogs, who went on one of the biggest buying sprees in league history a year ago, will likely be sellers this time around. The big question is how much selling will they do? The team's veteran players who have Memorial Cup experience will no doubt be of interest to a number of teams.

It's a necessity that the Sea Dogs do what they can to restock the team's bank of draft picks, which is currently extremely low for the next two drafts.

The QMJHL's trade deadline is Friday, Jan. 6, the day after the gold medal game of the World Junior Hockey Championship.

Recap: Sea Dogs win 6-3

FINAL: Cape Breton 3, Saint John 6

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - Cam MacDonald scored a hat trick to lead the Saint John Sea Dogs to a 6-3 win over the Cape Breton Eagles on Saturday at TD Station.

MacDonald, who was once again used as a defenseman for much of the night, also had an assist in his first star performance. The Tampa Bay Lightning prospect also scored in Friday's 4-3 Sea Dogs win over the Eagles.

Eriks Mateiko, Alexis Cournoyer and Cole Burbidge also scored in the victory. Connor Trenholm had three assists while Jared Cosman added two. Ventsislav Shingarov was very busy in net, making a career high 54 saves in the win.

Charles Boutin, Thomas Desruisseaux and Cam Squires scored for Cape Breton. Nicolas Ruccia made 32 saves in the loss.

The two teams battled to a 2-2 tie in a first period that saw the Eagles fire 28 shots on Shingarov. Saint John didn't lead until late in the second period when Burbidge banged in a loose puck to break a 3-3 tie.

In the third, MacDonald scored on a power play early and the completed the hat trick with a shorthanded goal late.

The win means the Sea Dogs close out the first half of the season with back-to-back victories. They head home for the Christmas break with an 11-18-1-1 record for 24 points - one point back of the Eagles.

Burns suspended five games

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - Saint John Sea Dogs leading scorer Brady Burns has been suspended five games for violation of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's anti-discrimination policy.

Here's the league's press release on the suspension:

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League announced today that Saint John Sea Dogs forward Brady Burns has been suspended for five (5) games for violating the anti-discrimination policy.

The suspension was handed out following inappropriate language that was used on December 16 against the Cape Breton Eagles.

Burns was handed a game misconduct at the end of Friday's game for what was labelled as "discriminatory taunts, gestures and slurs." There was the typical end-of-game rough stuff at the final buzzer but the Eagles were noticeably upset/frustrated and left the ice rather slowly.

Until that point, Burns was one of Saint John's best players in the game, scoring twice (including the game-winning goal with 1:23 remaining in the third period) and adding an assist. He was the game's first star.

The 20-year-old Burns is Saint John's leading scorer and this suspension is a significant loss for the team - but there are obviously more important things to think about in a situation like this.

It's worth noting that this suspension means Burns will not be able to break Spencer Smallman's franchise record for career games played as a Sea Dog. Burns has played in 257 games and will only be able to play in a maximum of 33 more this season, putting him at 290. Smallman currently holds the record with 293 games played.

Recap: Sea Dogs win 4-3

FINAL: Cape Breton 3, Saint John 4

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - Brady Burns watched the Cape Breton Eagles score the overtime winner from the penalty box on Wednesday, 

On Friday, Burns scored the game-winning goal at 18:37 of the third period to lift the Saint John Sea Dogs to a 4-3 victory over the Eagles at TD Station.

Burns scored a pair of goals for Saint John and added an assist while Cam MacDonald and Connor Trenholm also scored. Vince Elie had two helpers while Ventsislav Shingarov made 32 saves in the win.

Charles Boutin, Olivier Houde and Samuel Johnson scored for Cape Breton in what was a back-and-forth affair with a few lead changes. Nicolas Ruccia made 36 saves in the loss.

The Eagles opened the scoring at 9:08 of the second period when Boutin grabbed the puck in the neutral zone, skated around Nicolas Bilodeau and then ripped a shot top corner past Shingarov.

Saint John went to a 5-on-3 power play at 16:09, which allowed them to retake the momentum. At 16:32, Burns fired a shot from the top of the circle that beat Ruccia blocker side to tie things up at 1-1.

MacDonald scored on a power play at 6:02 of the third, firing a shot from the point through some traffic to give Saint John their first lead of the night.

Nico Laforge took a double minor for high sticking at 9:57 and the Eagles quickly converted. At 10:13, Houde put in the rebound of a low point shot to make it a 2-2 game.

Cape Breton retook the lead at 13:57. On a two-on-one, Boutin made a nice feed to Johnson through some traffic who tapped the puck past Shingarov to make it 3-2 Eagles. Saint John would tie the game again at 15:49 when, after an Eagles turnover, Burns fed Trenholm down low who beat Ruccia in tight.

With 1:23 remaining, Elie crossed the line and then fed Burns in the high slot who made no mistake, ripping a wrist shot past Ruccia to give Saint John a 4-3 lead.

Courteau confirms retirement; President Cup to be renamed

ST. STEPHEN, NB - As expected, Quebec Major Junior Hockey League commissioner Gilles Courteau announced at a press conference Friday morning that he plans to retire in 2024.

Courteau has been involved with the QMJHL for 47 years. From the news release:

During the press conference, the President of the Board of Members, Richard Létourneau, assisted by the Second Vice President of the Executive Committee and Halifax Mooseheads majority owner, Bobby Smith, announced the process and the timelines to select the next Commissioner. The process will begin after the Holidays and end with the nomination of the new person at the end of May 2023. Courteau will stay on as Commissioner for the first six months of the 2023-24 season before handing over the title while mentoring the new person until May 31, 2024.

Unexpectedly, it was also announced Friday that "starting with the 2023 playoffs, the QMJHL champions will be awarded the Gilles Courteau Trophy."

Beginning with the 2023 #QPlayoffs, the @QMJHL champions will be awarded the Gilles Courteau Trophy (formerly known as the President Cup)! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/DD0GJf82j4

— Canadian Hockey League (@CHLHockey) December 16, 2022

The QMJHL's championship trophy had been called the President Cup. The name change will end the annual debate/confusion over whether the trophy should be referred to as the President Cup, Presidents Cup or President's Cup.

Friday's press conference can be seen below.

Game Day 30 & 31: vs Eagles

SAINT JOHN - The Saint John Sea Dogs close out the first half of the season with a pair of home games against the Cape Breton Eagles this weekend.

The Sea Dogs and Eagles clash Friday and Saturday night at TD Station. Both are 7 p.m. starts. Following Saturday's contest, the QMJHL will be on its holiday break until Dec. 28.

The Sea Dogs and Eagles met on Wednesday in Sydney with the Eagles earning a 3-2 overtime win. It was a very evenly played match, so these two games have the potential to be good ones.

TV/Radio/Stream: None/93 CFBC/CHL TV

2022-23 regular season records: The Sea Dogs are 9-18-1-1 for 20 points (sixth Maritimes/10th Eastern/18th QMJHL) while the Eagles are 11-16-2-1 for 25 points (fifth Maritimes/ninth Eastern/16th QMJHL).

Last games: The Sea Dogs and Eagles met on Wednesday night at Centre 200 with Cape Breton winning 3-2 in overtime. Ivan Ivan scored a pair of goals while William Shields also converted. Cole Burbidge and Brady Burns scored for Saint John. Both goaltenders were very good with Nicolas Ruccia making 29 stops in the win and Ventsislav Shingarov making 31 stops in the loss.

Notebook: Team Canada in St. Stephen

ST. STEPHEN, NB - Team Canada was back on the ice for a second day of practices at the Garcelon Civic Center on Thursday.

Canada's world junior team held its first practice on Wednesday and will continue to do so until Sunday. The practice schedule can be found on the Hockey Canada website. Practices are, for the time being, open to the public.

Thursday's practice had a much faster pace and saw the squad get some special teams work in. There was a meet-and-greet with fans later in the afternoon.

Hundreds in line in St Stephen to meet Canadian jr team as Day 2 wraps up of five day prep for world juniors in the NB Border Town. @HockeyCanada pic.twitter.com/fuFxhuK32J

— Kevin Barrett (@KevinBarrettNB) December 15, 2022

The team begins pre-tournament play on Monday in Moncton, taking on Vincent Despont and Switzerland at the Avenir Centre.

COURTEAU TO RETIRE

Le Soleil broke some major news on Thursday: QMJHL commissioner Gilles Courteau plans to retire in 2024. An official announcement will be made on Friday at a press conference.

Courteau, 65, has been in charge of the QMJHL since 1986. The league has expanded significantly under his watch, growing from 10 to 18 teams.

Le Soleil reports that a new commissioner will be brought in before Courteau's retirement, allowing for a smoother transition process. 

TRADE PERIOD SOON

The QMJHL's holiday trading period begins on Sunday - and quite a few deals are expected to be announced. It could be a busy few weeks across the league.

Ces échos, ils viennent d'un peu partout à travers le circuit.

Il faut s'attendre à beaucoup de mouvements cette année. https://t.co/7Zx4S9BZbj

— Mikaël Lalancette (@MikLalancette) December 13, 2022

Cape Breton Eagles play-by-play man Patrick McNeil has a solid preview of the trade period for Saltwire.

The trade deadline is Friday, Jan. 6 - the day after the world junior gold medal game.

Recap: Sea Dogs lose 3-2 (OT)

FINAL: Saint John 2, Cape Breton 3 (OT)

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SYDNEY, NS - Ivan Ivan scored the overtime winner to lift the Cape Breton Eagles to a 3-2 victory over the Saint John Sea Dogs on Wednesday night at Centre 200.

With Brady Burns in the box for a high stick, Ivan hammered a one time shot into the net before Sea Dogs goaltender Ventsislav Shingarov could slide over to give the home team the extra point.

Ivan also scored in regulation time while William Shields scored Cape Breton's other goal. Nicolas Ruccia was very good in the the Eagles crease, making 29 saves in the victory.

Burns and Cole Burbidge scored for Saint John while Cam MacDonald had two assists. Shingarov was also very good in net, making 31 stops in the loss.

These two teams are separated by just a few points in the standings and it showed in this game. Most of the match was very evenly played with shots ending 34-31 in favour of the Eagles.

The Sea Dogs and Eagles now travel to Saint John where they'll face off on Friday and Saturday night to close out the first half.

Game Day 29: at Cape Breton

SYDNEY, NS - The Saint John Sea Dogs and Cape Breton Eagles are about to see quite a bit of each other.

The two teams will close out the first half of the season with three straight meetings. The first of those meetings takes place tonight at 7 p.m. at Centre 200.

Only four points separate the two in the standings (Saint John has played one less game). Tonight's matchup is only the third meeting of the season between the two.

Following tonight's game in snowy Sydney, both clubs will travel to Saint John for games on Friday and Saturday to close out the pre-Christmas schedule.

TV/Radio/Stream: None/93 CFBC/CHL TV

2022-23 regular season records: The Sea Dogs are 9-18-0-1 for 19 points (sixth Maritimes/10th Eastern/18th QMJHL) while the Eagles are 10-16-2-1 for 23 points (fifth Maritimes/ninth Eastern/17th QMJHL).

Last games: The Sea Dogs are coming off a 7-4 loss to the Acadie-Bathurst Titan on Sunday. Pavel Simek had a pair of goals while Connor Trenholm and Jared Cosman added singles. Ventsislav Shingarov made 40 saves in the loss. The Eagles are coming off a 5-3 home win over the Moncton Wildcats on Sunday. Ivan Ivan, Angelo Fullerton, William Shields, Jeremy Langlois and Olivier Houde scored for Cape Breton. Nicolas Ruccia made 33 saves in the win.

Moncton looking world juniors ready

MONCTON - It's quite obvious that the World Junior Hockey Championship is beginning soon in Moncton.

Signage, posters, flags and banners can be spotted all over the city promoting the event. From the airport baggage carousel to lamp posts downtown, you can't miss the world junior signs.

Here's a quick look around the downtown.

Four QMJHL players make Team Canada

MONCTON - Former Saint John Sea Dogs forward Joshua Roy will once again represent Team Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championship.

Roy was one of the 22 players named to Canada's roster for the tournament. The announcement was officially made at a chilly event outside Moncton's Avenir Centre.

Roy, a Montreal Canadiens prospect, has 18 goals and 43 points in 26 games with the Sherbrooke Phoenix this season. He participated in last year's world juniors in Edmonton, recording three goals and eight points in seven games.

Four players from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League made the squad: Roy (Sherbrooke Phoenix), Tyson Hinds (Sherbrooke Phoenix), Zach Dean (Gatineau Olympiques) and Nathan Gaucher (Quebec Remparts).

Joshua Roy and Shane Wright pic.twitter.com/4keLDwZaHa

— Jamie Tozer (@station_nation) December 12, 2022

QMJHL players cut included Halifax Mooseheads forward Jordan Dumais, the QMHL's leading scorer who is averaging over two points per game. Dumais looked solid in Canada's two contests against the Atlantic University Sport all-stars, but it wasn't quite enough.

Acadie-Bathurst Titan forward Riley Kidney, a Halifax native, was left off the roster after getting hurt in Sunday's game against the AUS. He took warm up on Monday but did not play.

With Kidney and Riverview's Evan Nause both cut, Newfoundland's Zach Dean will be the only Atlantic Canadian in the event that will be held in Halifax and Moncton.

The full roster can be found here.

Canada practices in St. Stephen this week ahead of their pre-tournament games. The team faces Vincent Despont and Team Switzerland on Monday night at the Avenir Centre.