As we head into the playoff rounds of the 2026 World Junior Championships, we take a look at some of the players that stood out in group play.<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s a look at seven players who have impressed in the group round of this year’s tournament. Some have been drafted by NHL teams already. Also, some will be eligible for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. So, lots to keep our eyes on heading into the playoff rounds!<\/p>\n
Jiricek has been the most dominant player in this year\u2019s tournament and by far the best defenceman. His through-the-legs overtime winning goal against Finland went viral but what you don\u2019t see in that clip is his commitment to the defensive side of the game. He\u2019s been a shot blocking machine all week and been key for the Czechs in all three zones. He\u2019s tallied three goals and one assists for four total points and will look to help push the Czechs into medal contention this weekend.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Stop what you're doing and watch this OT winner from Adam Jiricek\u203c\ufe0f@czehockey<\/a> #WorldJuniors<\/a> #IIHF<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/KOsolNsnBh<\/a><\/p>\n — IIHF (@IIHFHockey) December 30, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n