Canada’s U18 team is getting offence from more than just its forwards. Through puck movement, depth, and activation from the backend, the blueline has become a key part of how Canada generates scoring chances early in the tournament.
Canada's offence is more often the focus of the U-18 Women's World Championships, and for good reason. The team can generate chances from seemingly anywhere on the ice, which is what helps separate them from many of the others in the tournament. Quick transitions, strong neutral-zone play, and a collective commitment to denying clean entries keep the puck at the right end for long stretches. But it is the defensive corps that gives Canada another layer to its attack.
Canada’s defenders continue to prove to be an essential source of offence, particularly through puck movement and activation from the backend.
That was evident against Switzerland, as Kate Viel, Megan Mossey, and Avery Jones each recorded assists during first-period play of Canada's 9-0 win. Kali Maechtel added an assist in the second, and Anais Leprohon in the third.
On several occasions, defenders used the stretch play to spring forwards on the rush, creating high-quality scoring chances. By game’s end, the blueline factored into six of Canada’s nine goals, highlighting the key role they play in generating scoring chances.
That confidence carries over into their own zone as well. When opponents gain entry, Canada’s defenders use strong gap control to regain possession and transition the puck quickly. Those same players then join the rush, activating in the offensive zone to help sustain pressure and extend possessions.
Receiving offence from all parts of the lineup will be key as Canada looks to defend its U-18 title. The ability of its defenders to influence the game at both ends of the ice will play a significant role in that pursuit.