Team Canada made roster cuts Thursday to for the 2020 World Juniors in the Czech Republic, and former Kootenay Ice captain Peyton Krebs was one of nine players released.
Returning from a partially torn Achilles tendon just weeks ago, Krebs has put up 10 points in 8 games with the WHL’s Winnipeg Ice since his return, but it appears it wasn’t enough for him to hold on to a roster spot.
Krebs previously represented Canada at the 2018 U17 World Hockey Championship, at the 2019 U18 World Hockey Championship, and at the 2019 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. The Okotoks, AB native was drafted 17th overall by the Vegas Golden Knights this summer.
While the injury may have played a factor in their decision, Team Canada also got word that both Barrett Hayton and Joe Veleno were being released for the tournament by the Arizona Coyotes and Detroit Red Wings, adding two more forwards into the fold.
Team Canada’s roster is now made up of 24 players, including 14 forwards, seven defensemen, and three goaltenders. Among those on the roster is Cranbrook’s own Bowen Byram. The 18-year-old has 19 points (3G, 16A) in 27 games with the WHL’s Vancouver Giants this season and was the 4th overall selection of the Colorado Avalanche in the 2019 NHL Draft this past June.
Canada will have to make one more roster cut to 23 players before the start of the 2020 World Junior Hockey Championship. Team Canada plays its first game of the tournament on Boxing Day against the United States.
