2013 U18 WJC Video: JT Compher, USA Photo: Team USA captain JT Compher has turned in a strong performance for his country at the 2013 U18 World Junior Championship (courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) In what was a see-saw battle ultimately decided in a shootout, the USA defeated Russia, 4-3, to move on to their fifth consecutive gold medal game at the U18 World Junior Championship. Team USA's opponent in the championship game will be Canada, who are going for their first gold medal win in five years at this event. Boston Bruins own several solid prospects at NCAA and European levels Photo: Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk had a strong freshman year for Boston University, managing 23 points through 38 games. (courtesy of Michael Tureski/Icon SMI) The Boston Bruins do not boast a large amount of prospects playing in Europe or college hockey, but there are some in the group that might be able to make a difference for the organization at some point in the near future. 2013 U18 WJC Video: Madison Bowey, Canada Photo: Kelowna Rockets defenseman Madsion Bowey, shown here taking part in the 2013 CHL Top Prospects Game, has been an effective performer for Canada at the 2013 U18 WJC (courtesy of Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images) When it comes to competing for gold at the U18 World Junior Championship, perhaps Canada should lobby to have the tournament in Russia every year. Russian ice has been kind to the Canadians at this tournament as Canada has won gold the two most recent times the U18 has been held in Russia. 2013 U18 WJC Video: Dillon Heatherington, Canada Photo: Swift Current Broncos defenseman Dillon Heatherington has been a steady presence on the blue line for Team Canada at the 2013 U18 WJC (courtesy of Marissa Baecker/Getty Images) For the first time since 2008, Canada will be competing for gold at the U18 World Junior Championship. The Canadians moved on to the gold medal game at this year's event by virtue of their 3-1 win over Finland in a semi-final match that took place at the Bolshoy Ice Dome in Sochi, Russia. Team Rankings: Detroit Red Wings deep prospect pool leads the middle group Photo: Detroit’s signing of Western Michigan defenseman Dan DeKeyser has improved the team’s breakout and transition game (courtesy of Steven King/Icon SMI) Below is the middle section of the Hockey's Future Spring NHL Team Rankings, the staff's ranking of each NHL team's system based on the strength of the entire prospect pool. For reference, just the top five prospects are listed. To be eligible, a prospect must meet HF's prospect criteria. The ranking is done twice a year, with this edition being an update to the Fall ranking. |
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