The 2025 World Junior Summer Showcase wrapped up in Minnesota with two solid games on the final day.
???????? Finland 3 – Sweden 1
Both goalies were sharp, but once again, Petteri Rimpinen (LAK) stole the show. Just like at the WJC 2025, Rimpinen was the best goalie of the tournament — calm, quick, and always in the right spot. The Los Angeles prospect finished the week as the top netminder at the WJSS.
Roope Vesterinen (Undrafted) had a big game with two goals, including the game-winner. He’s got a knack for finding the soft spots on the power play and ended the week with four goals. Another standout was Jack Berglund (PHI), who scored Sweden’s only goal and had several other chances. Rimpinen robbed him more than once. Berglund had a very strong week including seven points (5g, 2a) and excellent two-way play. He should be a lock for Sweden at the WJC 2026.
Both teams finished the week with 4-1 records.
???????? Canada 6 – USA 2: Canada wins its WJCC finale
Canada finally grabbed their first win of the week, and they did it in style. A 6-2 win over the USA — even though both sides rested most of their top players to evaluate depth options.
Canada’s top performers were O’Brien (SEA), Spence (NYR), and Vanacker (CHI). On the U.S. side, the standout was Osburn (BUF). He didn’t put up huge numbers but played a consistent, reliable game all week long.
Blackhawks Prospect Recap
Marek Vanacker (CHI):
What a week. Today, he had 2 points (1G, 1A) and brought his trademark work ethic on every shift. He started the game as the 13th forward, but you wouldn’t know it — he played like he belonged on the top line. He battled, forechecked hard, and showed real grit all game long. The coaches will remember his energy, hustle, and ability to make an impact no matter where he’s slotted in the lineup. Vanacker could absolutely be in the mix for a bottom-six role with Team Canada at the WJC 2026.
Sacha Boisvert (CHI):
Another strong showing. He had great chemistry with Michael Hage all week. Made smart plays, drove the net, and created chances. Whether he cracks the final Team Canada roster or not, he gave the staff a lot to think about.
AJ Spellacy (CHI):
He didn’t dress in the final game, but over the course of the week, he made a solid impression. Spellacy brought his usual physical edge and work ethic every time he stepped on the ice. At 6’3” and over 200 pounds, he used his frame effectively — battling hard along the boards, finishing checks, and going to the dirty areas. He may not have cracked Team USA’s top 12 for this game, but he showed exactly why the Blackhawks liked him at the draft. He’s a grinder with energy and toughness — the kind of player teams remember. Whether it’s enough for the WJC roster remains to be seen, but Spellacy gave it everything he had.
Final Thoughts
Another WJSS in the books — and once again, it delivered. Sweden showed why they’ll be one of the top teams at the WJC, but Finland was the real surprise this week. Between Koivu’s leadership and Rimpinen’s goaltending, they finished 4-1 and looked strong.
As for Canada and the USA, it’s tough to read too much into the results since they mixed lineups and rotated players all week to evaluate options for the 2026 WJC.
Thanks for following my coverage of the WJSS! Leave a comment and let me know who impressed you the most.
What’s Next?
Up next is the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, running from August 11–16 in Czechia and Slovakia. It’s another big event for scouting the 2026 NHL Draft class — and yes, the Blackhawks will be watching closely. They’re likely to pick in the top 5 again, and they’ve got two first-round picks next year (their own + Florida’s from the Seth Jones deal).
