WHL At The WJC: Lewandowski And McKenna Highlight Day One

At long last, arguably junior hockey's greatest tradition has started once again. The 2025 World Juniors have kicked off in Ottawa, Ont. and the Western Hockey League looks to be very well represented early on.

German efficiency against the Americans

Saskatoon Blades import selection David Lewandowski was one of the shining stars of Team Germany on Thursday afternoon, despite getting handed a 10-4 loss at the hands of Team USA. Lewandowski was all over the ice: hitting, shooting, making his opponents make some difficult decisions, you name it and he was there. The Blades' forward also ended up tallying a goal to bring him and his fellow countrymen within a goal in the second period, a shot that narrowly beat USA goaltender Trey Augustine.

Team Czechia gets a major 'dub'

The WHL had its fingerprints all over Team Czechia taking on Team Switzerland, with five different WHL skaters recording at least a point. Forwards Miroslav Holinka and Adam Jecho (Edmonton Oil Kings) continue their chemistry on the world stage, combining for three points and the latter assisting on a goal by Jakub Stancl (Kelowna Rockets). Stancl also added an assist of his own for a two-point contest. Lethbridge Hurricanes blueliner Vojtech Port also got in on the action, recording an assist, while Hurricanes teammate Leo Braillard scored the lone goal for the Swiss in a 5-1 finish.

Welcome to the WJC, Gavin McKenna

Did anyone expect anything less?

Medicine Hat Tigers star Gavin McKenna is already making an impression at the tournament as a 17-year-old, with a greasy rebound goal in the first period and several more chances, including one with Spokane Chiefs captain Berkly Catton (who lead the entire game in shots on goal with six). The two linemates were lethal throughout the Boxing Day clash against Team Finland, as well as blueliner Caden Price (Kelowna Rockets) who collected himself a very nice assist. Team Canada proceeded to defeat the Finns by a score of 3-0 and begin the 2025 tournament on a big note.

A schedule for Friday's games, as well as the remainder of the WJC can be found here.

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