Canada aims to defend its title at the World Para Hockey Championship, starting Saturday in Buffalo, New York, after clinching gold against the United States in last year's final. The Canadian squad has retained 16 players from last year's championship team, including goalie Adam Kingsmill, who delivered a stellar performance in the gold-medal match. Head coach Russ Herrington emphasizes the team's growth and experience, noting that each opponent will bring their best effort.

Canada's upcoming matches in the group stage include Germany, South Korea, and China, with the quarterfinals scheduled for May 28. The competition sets the stage for a continued rivalry with the US, who have bested Canada in several finals recently, including the Paralympic Games. This championship will be crucial as teams prepare for the upcoming Winter Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy, in 2026.