As the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship kicks off in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, all eyes are on the dynamic young talents set to compete for their respective countries. This year's tournament promises a thrilling showcase of future NHL stars and potential top NHL draft picks. Here are ten players to keep a close watch on over the next two weeks:

1. Gavin McKenna (LW, Canada): McKenna entered the season as the consensus top prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. After a strong season in the WHL, where he recorded 129 points in 56 games, McKenna transitioned to Penn State University, where he has 4 goals and 14 assists in 16 games. Despite the challenges of adjusting to NCAA hockey, his offensive dynamism remains undeniable. He will play a top-line role for Canada.

2. Ivar Stenberg (LW, Sweden): Stenberg is making a name for himself in the SHL, nearly averaging a point per game as a teenager. His performance has sparked discussions among scouts, with some even suggesting he could surpass McKenna as the top prospect for the 2026 Draft.

3. James Hagens (C, USA): A 2025 first-round pick by the Boston Bruins, Hagens is expected to lead the American offense. With experience from last year's gold-medal-winning team, where he tallied nine points in seven games, Hagens is poised to be a central figure for the United States.

4. Adam Novotný (LW, Czechia): Novotný has had a strong season in the OHL with the Peterborough Petes, scoring 19 goals and 16 assists in 29 games. His ability to adapt to North American play and his two-way commitment make him a player to watch as he takes on a top-six role for Czechia.

5. Cole Hutson (D, USA): Hutson, a Washington Capitals prospect, is known for his offensive capabilities from the blue line. Last year, he led the tournament in scoring. His offensive prowess and skill make him one of the most dangerous defensemen in the competition.

6. Tij Iginla (F, Canada): The son of NHL legend Jarome Iginla, Tij is making his World Juniors debut after recovering from hip surgery. Drafted sixth overall by the Utah Mammoth in 2024, Iginla is a power forward with a knack for taking advantage of opportunities.

7. Porter Martone (RW, Canada): Martone, a Philadelphia Flyers prospect, is expected to play on Canada's top line. His transition to the NCAA has been successful, as he currently leads Michigan State in scoring with 20 points in 16 games.

8. Carson Carels (D, Canada): Carels, a 17-year-old defenseman, is one of two 17-year-olds on Canada's roster. With eight goals and 29 points in 28 games in the WHL, Carels commands the game with his brain, skating, passing, and physical play.

9. Chase Reid (D, USA): Reid is a rising prospect who plays in all situations for the Soo Greyhounds in the OHL, contributing 14 goals and 21 assists in 31 games. His offensive vision and hockey sense make him a player to watch closely.

10. Adam Jiříček (D, Czechia): A St. Louis Blues prospect, Jiříček is playing in his third and final World Juniors. Fresh off being named OHL defenseman of the month, Jiříček is expected to play heavy minutes and be a leader on the Czech team.

These players represent just a fraction of the talent participating in the 2026 World Junior Championship. As the tournament progresses, expect these and other young stars to shine as they compete for gold. Several analysts predict Canada will take home the gold. All games will be broadcast live on NHL Network in the United States and TSN and RDS in Canada.