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As the 2024 IIHF World Championship unfolds in Prague and Ostrava, Czechia, NHL players are using this platform to prepare for upcoming prestigious events like the Olympics and the '4 Nations Face-Off' in 2025.
After a 12-year hiatus, NHL players are set to return to the Olympics in 2026, creating a buzz among top players eager to represent their countries on the global stage.
Team Canada, led by captain John Tavares, boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents like Connor Bedard, who has already made a significant impact with four goals in his first two games at the world championship.
With the NHL's international calendar getting back on track, players like Tavares and Bedard are seizing the opportunity to showcase their skills and stake their claim for future Olympic selections.
Meanwhile, Team USA is anchored by players like Brady Tkachuk, Brock Nelson, and Zach Werenski, who are looking to solidify their positions for potential Olympic roster spots.
As the competition heats up in group play, Canada, Sweden, and Switzerland have emerged as early frontrunners with impressive performances, setting the stage for thrilling matchups in the days ahead.
With goaltenders like Jordan Binnington and a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters on both teams, the world championship serves as a crucial stepping stone for players aiming to represent their countries at the highest level of international hockey.