Draft-Eligible Defencemen Carels and Verhoeff Nearing Spots on Team Canada for Masters Competition
In recent developments at the Gale Centre in Niagara Falls, Ontario, draft-eligible defencemen Carson Carels and Keaton Verhoeff are positioning themselves for potential spots on Canada’s World Junior team. Both 17 years old, they are showcasing their skills at a crucial training camp. With only eight defense positions open, the competition is intense.
Player Insights: Carson Carels and Keaton Verhoeff
Carels, who plays for the Prince George Cougars in the Western Hockey League (WHL), is logging significant ice time. He commented, “I didn’t expect to be here, but I’ve played my way into this opportunity.” Carels has scored eight goals and recorded 29 points in only 28 games this season. His previous season saw him finish with six goals and 35 points over 60 games.
- Height: 6’2”
- Weight: 194 lbs
- NHL Draft Ranking: No. 6 by TSN’s Craig Button
Verhoeff, currently a freshman at the University of North Dakota, stated, “I thought I played well enough to earn this invite.” With four goals and 11 points in 16 NCAA games, his performance is drawing attention.
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 212 lbs
- NHL Draft Ranking: No. 3 by TSN’s Craig Button
The Quest for World Junior Team Spots
This training camp has nine defencemen vying for positions on the World Junior team, but Carels and Verhoeff stand out as the youngest. If selected, they will become the sixth and seventh-youngest defencemen to represent Canada at this prestigious under-20 tournament.
Historically, two 17-year-old defencemen played together for Canada in 1987: Chris Joseph and Luke Richardson. Carels acknowledged, “Age doesn’t matter when you’re on the ice.” Both players have their sights set on making a formidable impact on the blue line.
Development and Style of Play
Carels attributes his success to adapting his offensive game, gaining more freedom on the ice, and participating in the top power play unit. He admires NHL talents like Jake Sanderson and Miro Heiskanen for their two-way gameplay and puck-moving skills.
Verhoeff, on the other hand, noted the importance of adapting to the accelerating pace and physicality of college hockey. He explained, “I’m learning to better control the game and effectively join the rush.” He takes inspiration from Victor Hedman and Thomas Harley, focusing on blending offensive prowess with defensive responsibilities.
A Look Ahead
The competition for roster spots remains fierce. Alongside Carels and Verhoeff, others like Ethan MacKenzie and Kashawn Aitcheson are making their presence felt in the camp. MacKenzie has also performed exceptionally, accumulating 31 points in 30 games this season.
The selection process will culminate soon, with all eyes on the promising defensive pair. Their journey exemplifies the skill and determination necessary to succeed at the international level.
