Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford has been named to Team Canada's World Junior team.
Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford has been named to Team Canada's World Junior team.
Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford has been named to Team Canada's World Junior team.
Cataford has been dealing with a knee injury but returned to play in Canada's final game of selection camp. He spoke to the media following today's game.
"I really liked the way I played. I played my identity, the way Hockey Canada wanted me to play, so I have no regrets no matter what the decision is going to be."
The 2023-24 QMJHL MVP currently has 11 goals and 38 points in 27 games and will join a Canadian roster expected to win gold. Cataford will be competing in the tournament for the first time in his career and will be one of the many first-timers.
It's unknown how large of a role the 19-year-old will play on Canada's roster but things move and change quickly during this tournament. Cataford can start with a minimal role and play his way into a larger and more impactful role if he impresses.
The 2023 third-round pick (77th overall) has only represented Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup where he won gold, recording an assist in five games.
The tournament begins on Boxing Day in Ottawa. Make sure you bookmark THN's Vegas Golden Knights site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.