Cole Reschny and Braeden Cootes led the way as Canada dominated Slovakia in the first exhibition contest of the tournament.

The 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in finally underway, and Thursday night had plenty of goals to go around.

Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds) tallied a goal in the first period to help Canada get out to a 3-0 lead after 20 minutes, and a second along with some Gavin McKenna magic to help lift their team to a 7-1 cushion after 40.

Reschny added one in the third, and Canada skated away with a final score of 10-1.

While not making as big of an impact on the score sheet, Calgary Hitmen blueliner Reese Hamilton made a few key back checks to prevent Slovak chances (one leading to a Canadian goal) and Tri-City Americans prospect Jackson Smith threw his weight around to impose a more physical game.

Canada will play a second exhibition game against Czechia on Saturday, Aug 3 at the Downtown Community Rink in Edmonton, Alta.

Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

Canada Kicks Off 2024 World Junior Summer Showcase With Shootout Loss To Team Sweden

Eight WHL Skaters Named to 2024 Canadian Hlinka Gretzky Cup Squad

Oil Kings' Blake Fiddler Named to 2024 USA Hlinka Gretzky Cup Roster

Two WHL Prospects Selected for Czech 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Roster

WHL Transaction Report: July 2024

WHL's Carson Wetsch Added to Team Canada Junior Summer Showcase Roster