While the majority of eyes will be focused on the top-level IIHF World Championship and teams like Canada, the United States, and others, the San Jose Sharks have a prospect competing a few divisions below that level.
Haoxi (Simon) Wang, the Sharks 33rd overall selection in the 2025 NHL Draft, will be representing China at the IIHF World Championship Division 1 Group B tournament.
Wang recently finished his final season in the Ontario Hockey League, concluding the season with the Niagara IceDogs. He's set to make the move to the NCAA and attend Boston University next season.
In 57 OHL games, Wang scored six goals and 26 points from the blue line, a major improvement from his prior offensive production during the 2024-25 season.
China, who are hosting their tournament this year, will be competing against South Korea, Romania, Estonia, Spain, and the Netherlands. China's first game will be early on Wednesday morning against Korea, with puck drop scheduled for 4:30 AM PT.