It’s a Christmas Miracle! Hockey that matters will be played in Canada today; the World Junior Championship gets underway for real in Edmonton. There’s three games to be played; Switzerland vs. Slovakia, Germany vs. Finland, Russia vs. USA; so you can plant yourself in front of the TV and watch live hockey all day today! It all begins at 2:00 p.m. ET. The games are broadcast on TSN 3 and TSN 5.

Naturally, we are most interested in the Finns and Russians since the Leafs have some hot prospects on both teams, especially to see if Topi Niemela comes through with a repeat performance from the warm-up game earlier this week.

Unfortunately, Nick Robertson isn’t there to play for Team USA, but if you want to relive some Team USA highlights, here’s a good set; every point scored by Auston Matthews in the 2016 World Juniors. Note the video is 11 minutes long because there’s that many points.

Other News

Anthony Cirelli re-signed to a 3-year, 4.8M AAV contract - Raw Charge
Their large adult son got PAID.

‘We’re talking about the same game’: Mélodie Daoust discusses her role with TVA Sports - Eyes On The Prize
The 2018 Olympic MVP is the network’s first woman to become an NHL analyst.

Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch sold to Penguins owner - AP
Neverland Ranch in California has found a new owner in billionaire businessman Ron Burkle.

Kirby Dach injured during World Juniors pre-tournament game - Second City Hockey
It happened during the third period of Canada’s game against Russia.

Justin Bourne on Kasperi Kapanen: “He was mature enough to figure it out” - PensBurgh
Check in with Kasperi Kapanen’s video coach from the AHL to get some information on his game.

From The Branches