Sweden’s dynamic duo faces a stacked Canadian roster as tournament play begins in Switzerland. With Mathew Barzal sidelined, all eyes shift to the Islanders' young stars in Zurich.
The New York Islanders expected to have three players competing at the 2026 IIHF World Championships, which kicks off on Friday in Switzerland.
However, with Mathew Barzal leaving Team Canada due to precautionary measures related to a pre-existing injury, all eyes are on Emil Heineman and Simon Holmstrom, who are suiting up for Team Sweden.
Those two will face Canada at 10:20 ET, which can be seen on NHL Network.
With Barzal out, Canada added Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby to their stacked squad. Macklin Celebrini will retain the "C" for Canada, with Crosby donning an "A".
Islanders Calder Trophy-winning defenseman Matthew Schaefer elected not to play for Canada to make sure he's rested and ready for the 2026-27 season.
Forward Bo Horvat, who won a silver with Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, elected not to participate.