Lenovo Center Arena | Carolina Hurricanes
Lenovo Center Arena | Carolina Hurricanes
The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship is set to begin on Thursday in Ottawa, featuring three prospects from the Carolina Hurricanes. Bradly Nadeau will represent Canada, while Felix Unger Sorum and Oskar Vuollet will play for Sweden.
Nadeau and Unger Sorum have been playing with the Chicago Wolves in the American Hockey League before joining their national teams for this tournament. The decision to allow them to participate was straightforward for the Hurricanes' management.
"It is an honor to represent one’s country in such an event," stated Darren Yorke, Canes Associate General Manager and Chicago Wolves General Manager. "This presents a valuable opportunity for both Bradly and Felix to apply the lessons they have acquired in Chicago and utilize them in the hope of securing a gold medal."
In his first professional season, Nadeau ranks second on the Wolves in scoring with 15 points over 22 games. He is expected to be a key player for Canada, skating on the first line and power play unit during pre-tournament practices.
Bradley Nadeau expressed his excitement about making his international debut: "You work your entire life to represent your country ... I'll give everything I got."
For Unger Sorum, this season has been about adapting to North American hockey. Drafted by Carolina in 2023, he has been learning to play center—a position where the team lacks right-handed options since Vincent Trocheck's departure in 2022. Unger Sorum is expected to play a top-six role for Sweden.
Oskar Vuollet is another prospect who aims to make an impression at the tournament. Having played most of his season with Skellefteå AIK in Sweden's top league, Vuollet joins a roster filled with NHL-drafted players.
Had Russia participated in this year's World Juniors, several Carolina-drafted players might have featured prominently on their team. However, due to circumstances preventing their participation, these prospects will not compete this year.
The World Juniors games are scheduled from December 26 through January 5.
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