Over the last few renditions of the World Junior Championship, the NY Islanders weren’t very well represented. But for the 2026 rendition, the Isles should be near the top of the leaderboard among NHL teams with players participating, as six prospects are projected to make their nation’s roster according to Scott Wheeler, Corey Pronman, and Max Bultman of The Athletic.
Starting with Team Canada, the first name likely on the roster is 2025 first overall pick Matthew Schaefer. Schaefer was arguably Canada’s best defenseman in 2025, before his tournament was cut short after breaking his collarbone in Canada’s second game against Latvia. The only way Schaefer is not on the ice for Canada come this holiday season is if he’s secured a spot on the Islanders roster.
Joining him in the blue line should likely be Kashawn Aitcheson, drafted 17th overall this year. Aitcheson adds a massive element of physicality for the Canadians.
For the Americans, 2024 first-round pick Cole Eiserman has the potential to be one of the USA’s top performers and can compete for the tournament’s leading goal scorer. With three goals and seven points playing in a limited role last year, Eiserman will likely see top-six minutes this time around.
Joining him could very well be his Boston University teammate and 2024 second-round pick, Kamil Bednarik. Bednarik plays a solid defensive game and could be utilized on the penalty kill while playing a middle-six role.
Team Sweden, who are always considered one of the favorites, will in all likelihood have Victor Eklund on their top line. He could be joined on a line by third overall pick Anton Frondell and projected top-5 pick in 2026 Ivan Stenberg, creating one of the tournament’s top lines.
Then there is Tomas Poletin for Czechia. Poletin is a physical player who can play in a bottom-six role, and potentially see time on the man-advantage either in front of goal or along the right circle.