Neutral Zone Wrap: World Juniors Preview

Happy folly-days! Yes, the NHL is officially a joke in your town - provided your town has a sense of humor and even cares about hockey. But never fear, alternative options are here.

With the big kids fighting over who can stay in the sandbox, the young ones are itching to display their wares in the World Junior Hockey Championship. And thanks to the tournament being held in Russia, us Eastern time-zoners are subjected to 4AM wake-up calls and the inevitable office naps that will follow. For those on the left coast, these games are merely an excuse to stay up late, party, and hydrate with copious amounts of ‘fun' beverages.

The next potential stars are ready and able. But can they carry their country to a medal? Here are the ones to keep an eye on in Ufa (not to be confused with the acronym for an unrestricted free-agent). No obvious selections like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins or Nail Yakupov but also no obscure examples from Latvia's practice squad. And...here we go:

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