While Canada has had a relatively easy time at the World Junior Hockey Championships in Edmonton so far, there was still some negative chatter taking place on social media. A lot of it dealt with the 2nd overall draft pick in 2020, Quinton Byfield. Byfield answered back in a big way Tuesday night.
Byfield had just one assist in Canada's first two games at the tournament, which is where the criticism was coming from. He ended that abruptly with a six point performance against Switzerland on Tuesday, potting two goals and adding four assists. He would be named Canada's Player of the Game. Byfield's breakout, and the earlier criticism didn't go unnoticed.
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The criticism of Byfield before this does seem unwarranted. He's just 18 and still has quite a bit of developing to do. Alexis Lafreniere, who got most of the spotlight at this year's draft (deservedly so), is most likely NHL ready. Byfield may need another year or two before hitting the with the Kings in LA, which is perfectly fine. All signs point to him being an impact player, if not a star in the NHL once he's ready.
As for Team Canada, Byfield's six points were part of a 10-0 beating of Switzerland. Jakob Pelletier added three points (2G, 1A) and Dylan Cozens had a goal and an assist and now leads the tournament in scoring with seven points (3G, 4A). For full highlights, head over to the Video section of our website.
Canada will take on Finland New Year's Eve for a battle to determine the top team in Group A.
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