Team Canada head coach Dale Hunter confirmed that San Jose Sharks forward Michael Misa has been cleared to play and will center the top line in tonight’s World Juniors opener against Czechia.

It marks a notable turnaround for Misa, who was left off the roster at the previous tournament. Since then, he and Hockey Canada have moved past that decision, and Misa is now focused on helping his country rebound from last year’s stunning quarterfinal defeat.

A New Era for Michael Misa

Misa has spent the past three seasons in the OHL with the Saginaw Spirit, but last year marked a dramatic breakout. He erupted for 62 goals and 72 assists for 134 points in 65 games. Remarkably, that total surpassed his combined production from the previous two seasons, when he posted 56 and 75 points, respectively, for 131 points overall.

If Misa harbored any lingering frustration from being left off the World Juniors roster the year before, he answered it decisively, elevating his game and establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in junior hockey. That surge propelled him to be selected second overall by the Sharks, and he went on to earn a spot on the opening-night roster as an 18-year-old.

Despite missing extended time with an ankle injury, the Sharks determined that a loan to Team Canada for the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship would benefit Misa’s long-term development. He appeared in two pre-tournament contests, with his second outing offering a clear glimpse of his offensive ceiling.

A Great Impression

Slotted on Canada’s top line alongside Utah Mammoth blue-chip prospect Tij Iginla and Philadelphia Flyers standout Porter Martone, Misa was a driving force in a lopsided 13–2 rout of Denmark. He recorded two assists — both on Iginla goals — highlighting his vision, pace, and ability to dictate play.

Although Misa exited that game in the second period as a precaution, he made a strong enough impression before leaving the ice that he has now been fully cleared and will be in the lineup for tonight’s matchup against Czechia.

Notable Scratches

Top Detroit Red Wings prospect Carter Bear and defenseman Keaton Verhoeff, also regarded as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, are both healthy scratches for tonight’s game.

Bear recorded 82 points in 56 games last season with the WHL’s Everett Silvertips. The 19-year-old’s campaign was cut short due to a torn Achilles. He has started this season strong, posting 27 points in 23 games, including 13 goals and 14 assists.

Verhoeff also played in the WHL, spending parts of two seasons with the Victoria Royals. He tallied 21 goals and 24 assists for 45 points in 63 games. He is currently in his first year of college hockey with the University of North Dakota, where he has recorded 4 goals and 7 assists for 11 points in 16 games.

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