Alex DeBrincat and Logan Brown, two forwards who’ve put up big numbers in the OHL, have been cut from the United States’ World Juniors roster.
A second-round draft pick of the Blackhawks, DeBrincat, 19, has 30 goals and 30 assists in 28 games for the Erie Otters. He was on the team last year and was expected to be a big part of this year’s squad.
Brown, the 11th overall pick in 2016 (Senators), has 21 points (8G, 13A) in 15 games for Windsor. The 18-year-old has been battling a wrist injury, which may have hindered his chances of making the team.
“We knew coming into the camp that decisions would be difficult and that is a testament to these quality players and the talent pool available to us in the United States,” said USA GM Jim Johannson. “There are still some decisions to be made, but as a staff we are pleased by the team’s continued chemistry and unity that head coach Bob Motzko first started back in August.”
From the USA Hockey press release:
Of the original 27 camp invitees (three goalies, eight d-men, and 16 forwards), only 23 will make the cut.
Brock Boeser, a forward, has already been ruled out after undergoing wrist surgery.