Brayden Yager has quickly established himself as a promising talent in the world of hockey, having recently joined the Winnipeg Jets after being traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins. During his time at the Penguins' training camp, Yager was particularly inspired by veteran captain Sidney Crosby, whom he described as one of the best players in the game. Yager appreciated Crosby's approachable demeanor, stating that Crosby treated him like one of the team, which made a lasting impression on the young player.

Now serving as captain for Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championship, Yager is determined to utilize the leadership lessons he learned from Crosby. He expressed his pride in representing Canada and emphasized the importance of teamwork. Although Yager had a challenging previous tournament, he is focused on contributing to the team's success in the upcoming knockout rounds.

After being selected 14th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, Yager had an impressive season with the Moose Jaw Warriors, showcasing his scoring ability and contributing significantly during playoffs. His recent trade to the Jets has reignited his passion for the game, and he feels welcomed by his new teammates and coaching staff. Yager's commitment to the team and his willingness to take on any role necessary has earned him respect among his peers, including fellow Canadian player Berkly Catton, who praised Yager's leadership qualities.

As Yager prepares for the quarterfinals against Czechia, he carries with him the lessons learned from his brief time with Crosby, aiming to lead his team with the same work ethic and competitive spirit that Crosby exemplifies.