Former WHLers Stepping Up For Their Countries At The 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship
Over 35 current and former WHLers are participating in this year's World Championship.
Photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports - Former WHLers Stepping Up For Their Countries At The 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World ChampionshipThe first few days of the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship have been exhilarating. The tournament has already featured upsets and unbelievable comebacks as players set out to represent their countries with pride. This year also features over 35 current and former WHLers looking to make their mark on the international stage. With this in mind, here is a look at five former WHLers who have made a significant impact on their teams so far.
Connor Bedard- Regina Pats/Canada
To no one's surprise, Connor Bedard is dominating at the World Championship. Through three games, he leads all players with five goals and is tied for the tournament lead with six points. If Bedard can continue to dominate as he has already, the Chicago Blackhawks forward could be adding yet another medal and MVP to his trophy case.
Dominic Zwerger- Spokane Chiefs/Everett Silvertips/Austria
Dominic Zwerger has been a difference-maker for Austria through the country's first three games of the tournament. He leads the team in points with four, with his best performance coming in a 7-6 overtime loss to Canada, where he recorded a goal and two assists, all in the third period. Zwerger will need to continue to be a leader for Austria as they fight to avoid relegation.
Rodrigo Ābols- Portland Winterhawks/Latvia
Rodrigo Ābols is once again representing Latvia with pride. The former Portland Winterhawks forward recently played in his 50th career game at the World Championship and sits tied for third on the team with three points in three games. After winning Bronze in 2023, Ābols will be looking to add another medal to his cabinet as he looks to cement himself as one of the greatest players ever to represent Latvia on the international stage.
Joachim Blichfeld- Portland Winterhawks/Denmark
Representing Denmark once again, Joachim Blinchfeld is having a solid start to the tournament. The former Winterhawks forward leads the team with three points in three games while also leading the team with eight shots on goal. With a crucial matchup against Great Britain on the horizon, Blichfeld will need to step up to ensure Denmark can stay well above the relegation line this season.
Seth Jones- Portland Winterhawks/USA
Seth Jones has been a leader on a relatively young USA team. Another graduate from Portland's program, he sits tied for second on Team USA with three points and is one of two players who has played over 20 minutes in all three games. With over 30 appearances for his country at the World Championships, he will be looked to step up and lead the United States to their first Gold Medal in over 50 years.
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