Vancouver Canucks top prospect Braeden Cootes is firmly on the radar for Hockey Canada's world junior team, with general manager Alan Millar personally scouting the young centre this week.
Team Canada's Scouting Mission
Alan Millar, the general manager for Canada's world junior team, was in Kent, Washington on Tuesday night to watch Braeden Cootes play for the Seattle Thunderbirds. The visit was part of Millar's ongoing preparations for assembling the squad that will compete in the upcoming World Junior Championship.
Cootes, who remains ranked number one in the Vancouver Canucks prospect power rankings, continues to impress with his performance this season. The 18-year-old centre has recorded 5 goals and 14 points in just 9 games with the Thunderbirds, including an assist in Seattle's 4-1 victory over the Wenatchee Wild during Millar's scouting visit.
Cootes' Impressive Credentials
The Canucks' first-round pick (15th overall) in last summer's draft brings significant international experience to the table. Cootes previously served as team captain for Canada's Under-18 squad that won gold at the world championships in Frisco, Texas last May, where he recorded an impressive 6 goals and 12 points in 7 games.
His all-around game makes him particularly valuable for tournament play. In recent games against Wenatchee and the Vancouver Giants, Cootes demonstrated his face-off proficiency, winning 32 of 49 draws (65 percent). This versatility could allow him to play various roles within Team Canada's lineup.
Cootes already has some NHL experience, having played three games with the Canucks before being reassigned to Seattle earlier this season.
Competition for Roster Spots
Despite his strong credentials, Cootes faces significant competition for a spot on Team Canada. He was among 28 forwards and 44 players overall invited to the summer showcase in Minneapolis. The world junior tournament typically features predominantly 19-year-old players, and 20 of the forwards at summer camp were in that age bracket.
Additionally, thirteen forwards invited to camp were drafted earlier than Cootes was selected by Vancouver. The competition will intensify with expected participation from prospects like Gavin McKenna, who's projected to be the first overall pick in next summer's NHL draft.
Team Canada is expected to announce its camp roster in early December, with indications pointing toward a smaller selection group than previous years. Last year's camp began with 32 players, while two years ago started with 30 before trimming down to the final 22-player roster.
The world junior camp runs from December 12-22 in Niagara Falls, with the tournament beginning on Boxing Day in St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota.
