Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon reunite to represent Canada at the ice hockey world championship, marking a significant milestone after a decade. The tournament, pivotal as a final test before the 2026 Winter Games, sees these two stars in Europe while the NHL playoffs unfold. Crosby, a seasoned veteran, boasts an impressive track record with three Stanley Cups and two Olympic golds, leading Canada to victory in various international tournaments. MacKinnon, fresh off an NHL season where he tallied 116 points, is eager to make his mark alongside Crosby.

Both players aim to pave the way for a successful championship run, as Canada is historically the most successful team in the tournament’s history. They are joined by a youthful squad featuring rising talents like 18-year-old Macklin Celebrini, the top prospect for the 2024 NHL draft. Other formidable competitors include David Pastrnak from the Czech Republic, fresh off a standout NHL season, and the U.S. team led by captain Clayton Keller, which seeks to secure its first medal since 2021. With high expectations, Canada heads into Group A with top rivals like Sweden and Finland.