That's D.C. Hockey Pilot The Washington Capitals got quite a showing from one of their prospects on Friday, as Eriks Mateiko helped pave the way for a Latvia upset over Team Canada at the 2025 World Junior Championships. Mateiko, wearing the "A" for his country, went in the eighth round of a lengthy shootout between Latvia and Canada and put his shot blocker side to seal a 3-2 victory, the nation's third-ever WJC victory. The 18-year-old also had a power-play goal for the Latvians in the third period to even the score, and he led all forwards in ice time with 18:14 minutes. Mateiko went in the third round (90th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, with Washington liking his skating, size and hockey IQ. He signed his entry-level deal with the Capitals [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/washington-capitals/news/washington-capitlas-sign-eriks-mateiko-three-year-entry-level-contract] over the summer and got a preseason game to boot. The 6-foot-5 power forward gets to the high-danger areas and uses his frame to his advantage, and his stickhandling and playmaking ability make him a major threat on offense. He's also a proven leader on and off the ice, as he not only serves as an alternate for Latvia but captains the QMJHL's Saint John Sea Dogs. In 23 games so far this season in the Q, Mateiko has 19 points and is enjoying a strong post-draft season. Latvia will face Team USA, which features a star-studded roster and fellow Washington prospects Ryan Leonard and Cole Hutson [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/washington-capitals/takes/washington-capitals-prospects-world-juniors-day-1-recap], on Saturday. In addition to Mateiko, fellow Capitals up-and-comers Miroslav Satan Jr. (Slovakia) and Leon Muggli (Switzerland) played on Friday, with Slovakia managing a 2-1 win.
