Nashville’s rookie camp centers on Brady Martin, the 2025 No.5 pick, with scouts keen on whether he can stand out and force a quick NHL look or whether his path still runs through the OHL. The Predators are also re-evaluating the Molendyk-Gibson pairing amid hints they could be split, a move that would reshape early-season defense depth. Cole O’Hara, a 2022 fourth-rounder with a Pro debut behind him, will push to prove he’s pro-ready. Florida hosts the rookie tournament against Florida, Carolina, and Tampa Bay before the veterans report.

Martin’s Florida showing could tilt Nashville’s nine-game NHL window decision and influence whether he stays or returns to Sault Ste. Marie. The camp will illuminate how Milwaukee’s AHL path could unfold for Molendyk and Gibson, and whether O’Hara’s playmaking can translate to a full-time role. Florida’s tournament acts as the first real barometer before September’s main camp.

The recent acquittal of five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team has stirred significant debate and response in the sports community. Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube, and Callan Foote faced serious allegations dating back to June 19, 2018, involving a sexual assault incident. Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia ruled that the complainant's testimony lacked sufficient credibility, citing inconsistencies and a lack of corroborative evidence.

This case, which has garnered attention through various investigations and public discourse, has raised questions about the accountability of athletes and sports organizations. Despite the acquittal, the fallout from the allegations continues to affect the players' careers, with none currently on NHL rosters.

The Nashville Predators have officially signed Matthew Wood, their first-round draft pick from 2023, to a three-year entry-level contract. This comes after Wood's NCAA season concluded with a heartbreaking overtime loss in the playoffs. At 6'4" and 205 pounds, the 20-year-old forward is expected to bring a valuable combination of size and skill to the team. With 44 goals and 57 assists over 109 NCAA games, Wood has demonstrated his scoring ability, although scouts have noted a need for improvement in his skating and speed. He is anticipated to join the Predators shortly, marking the next step in his professional career.

Team Canada goaltender Carter George showcased his talent at the World Juniors in Ottawa by achieving his second consecutive shutout, leading the team to a 3-0 victory over Team Germany. This performance came after a disappointing loss to Latvia, and George's efforts were crucial in helping Canada recover and tie with Team USA in points ahead of their upcoming showdown on New Year's Eve.

Throughout the match against Germany, George demonstrated his skills by stopping 18 shots, maintaining a narrow lead for the Canadians. The game remained tense until defenseman Caden Price scored a pivotal goal, extending the lead to 2-0 with a fortunate bounce off German goaltender Nico Pertuch. As the game progressed, Germany pulled their goalie for an extra attacker, giving George a rare opportunity to score from his own end. Although his shot reached the opposing goal line, it was ultimately called icing.

Despite missing the chance to score, George still made an impact by assisting teammate Mathieu Cataford, who successfully netted an empty-net goal. This performance not only secured George's second shutout but also earned him the title of Canada's player of the game for the second time in the tournament. His previous shutout was against Finland, where he stopped 31 shots in a 4-0 victory. George, a prospect for the Los Angeles Kings, has demonstrated impressive statistics in the OHL this season, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the hockey world.

As Canada prepares to face the USA, both teams sit on seven points in Group A, with the outcome of their match potentially determining the group leader heading into the quarterfinals. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to this critical matchup.

Willie Desjardins, former head coach of the Vancouver Canucks, is now guiding Gavin McKenna, a standout forward for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL. McKenna, expected to be the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has been impressing with his scoring ability and agility.

As he prepares for the world junior hockey championship, McKenna draws comparisons to past Canadian stars and aims to leave a mark similar to Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini. His unique skills have garnered attention from coaches and players alike, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.