Hockey Canada has officially revealed the first 15 players selected to represent the country at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, which kicks off on May 9. While the roster features several talented names, it’s also clear that some big players are currently missing—either by personal choice or because of management decisions.
This year, Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas is leading the selection process for Team Canada, supported by a committee of NHL executives: Dennis Bonvie, Jason Spezza, Andrew Cogliano, and Gregory Campbell.
Big Names Missing—for Now
Some of the most well-known Canadian NHL stars are not currently listed, including Sidney Crosby, Connor Bedard, and Steven Stamkos. These players were all eligible after missing the Stanley Cup playoffs, but have not been named—at least not yet. They might still be considering whether to participate, but as of now, they are not on the team.
This isn’t the full roster, so there’s still a chance we may see additions in the coming days.
Olympic Hopefuls Look to Impress
For several players, this tournament is more than just a chance to win gold—it’s also a golden opportunity to fight for a spot on Canada’s 2026 Olympic team, which will compete in the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina.
Travis Konecny and Travis Sanheim of the Philadelphia Flyers, who already made the 4 Nations Face-Off roster, are looking to strengthen their Olympic chances. Their performance in the World Championship could help them get over the line for Olympic selection.
Meanwhile, defensemen like Noah Dobson (New York Islanders), MacKenzie Weegar (Calgary Flames), and Brandon Montour (Seattle Kraken) will also use this stage to prove their worth for the Olympic team.
Rising Stars Getting Their Shot
There’s also a youth movement taking shape. Top NHL prospects Macklin Celebrini (San Jose Sharks), Adam Fantilli, and Kent Johnston (both from Columbus Blue Jackets) have been called up. These youngsters now have a chance to gain international experience and show they can play at the highest level.
For young players like Celebrini, this is an excellent stepping stone that could shape their international careers.
Goaltending Still Taking Shape
As of now, the only goaltender named is Dylan Garand, a 22-year-old who plays in the AHL for the Hartford Wolf Pack, the New York Rangers’ affiliate team. He hasn’t made his NHL debut yet, but this could be his breakthrough moment.
However, there’s still hope that Samuel Montembeault of the Montreal Canadiens could join the squad, especially since his team was recently eliminated from the NHL playoffs.
Full List: Team Canada’s First 15 Players for the 2025 World Championship
Forwards:
- Macklin Celebrini – San Jose Sharks
- Will Cuylle – New York Rangers
- Adam Fantilli – Columbus Blue Jackets
- Tyson Foerster – Philadelphia Flyers
- Barrett Hayton – Utah HC
- Bo Horvat – New York Islanders
- Kent Johnston – Columbus Blue Jackets
- Travis Konecny – Philadelphia Flyers
- Ryan O’Reilly – Nashville Predators
Defense:
- Noah Dobson – New York Islanders
- Ryker Evans – Seattle Kraken
- Brandon Montour – Seattle Kraken
- Travis Sanheim – Philadelphia Flyers
- MacKenzie Weegar – Calgary Flames
Goaltender:
- Dylan Garand – Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)
While some big names are missing, the 15-player group announced so far gives Team Canada a strong mix of youth, experience, and two-way talent. As the rest of the roster is filled out, we may still see veterans like Crosby or Bedard join in, but even if they don’t, this team is packed with potential.
The World Championship not only offers a chance at international glory—it also gives players a stage to push for Olympic selection in 2026. For many on this list, that long-term goal starts right here in May.
