"Mat Barzal is coming off statistically one of his best seasons in the NHL, racking up 72 points (19 G, 53 A) in 81 games. This will be the third time Barzal has represented Canada at the World Championship, previously donning the Maple Leaf in 2018 and 2022."
"Last year, Bo Horvat joined the Canada team after the Islanders missed out on the playoffs, putting together a solid tournament, scoring four goals and adding four assists in six games before suffering an injury and missing the remainder of the tournament."
"Though there is no international competition slated for the 2026-27 season, Barzal could be looking towards the return of the World Cup of Hockey in 2028. This could become his first stepping stone towards making that roster full of superstars."
"Play will begin on May 15 in Switzerland, with the Canadians in Group B along with Sweden, Czechia, Denmark, Slovakia, Norway, Slovenia, and Italy."
The NY Islanders failed to qualify for the 2025-26 Stanley Cup Playoffs, but Mat Barzal will join Team Canada at the World Championship. Barzal had a strong season, scoring 72 points in 81 games. This marks his third appearance at the World Championship, having previously played in 2018 and 2022. Last year, Bo Horvat's participation helped his Olympic chances. Barzal may aim for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey. The full Canadian roster is pending, with potential inclusion of other Islanders like Matthew Scahefer. The tournament starts on May 15 in Switzerland.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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