The IIHF World Junior Championships kicked off today, featuring 10 teams and top U-20 players from around the world. The tournament runs through January 5th in Ottawa, with Pittsburgh Penguins prospects taking part. Forward Tanner Howe, a second-round pick in 2024, will represent Canada, while Finnish defensemen Kalle Kangas (seventh round, 2023) and Emil Pieniniemi (third round, 2023) will compete for Team Finland.
Canada’s team has been met with some criticism for selecting Howe over other skilled players, but the focus is on creating a well-rounded team. In an exhibition game, Howe showed promise, battling hard at both ends of the ice and drawing penalties to give his team momentum.
Pieniniemi, 19, was named one of four rotating alternate captains for Finland. The top defender in Canadian juniors this season, he made the jump from Finnish pro ranks to the Ontario Hockey League. Team USA does not have any Penguins prospects participating this year, but regional connection Brandon Svoboda will face off against Canada on December 26.
The tournament schedule features a matchup between Team Canada and Team Finland on December 26, with Canada’s preliminary play continuing on December 27-31. The games can be watched on NHL Network in the United States.
Source: https://www.pensburgh.com/2024/12/26/24328023/2025-world-juniors-pittsburgh-penguin-focus-tanner-howe-canada-pens-prospects