Team USA d-man Cole Hutson has been released from the hospital after sustaining an injury via a shot to the back of the head in Team USA’s 2-1 victory over Team Switzerland on Saturday. USA Hockey officially has listed Hutson as day to day, a huge relief considering he was ushered from the playing surface on a stretcher, and was immobilized for precautionary purposes. Hockey-wise, Hutson’s prolonged absence would have been a huge blow to American medal hopes.
With respect to Team Canada, forward Gavin McKenna quickly reminded everyone why he is the top prospect for the upcoming draft. The attached video shows his elite vision and play-making ability in setting up teammate Porter Martone for a far-post tap-in against Team Czechia on opening night.
Speaking of Martone, the IIHF issued a formal warning of unsportsmanlike conduct against the Philadelphia prospect. His actions against Team Czechia of “butt-tapping” an opponent after an empty-netter was considered taunting. Thankfully, however, the IIHF’s action did not involve a suspension. The attached article provides further detail on this incident (it does refer to pre-game conduct, which I believe is incorrect).
Also concerning Team Canada is 2026 draft-eligible d-man Carson Carels. Originally, Carels was the team’s seventh d-man, but his stellar play has vaulted him into a top-four role. The player with whom he is paired most often is Pittsburgh’s Harrison Brunicke, who has spent much of this season with the Penguins. Playing such important minutes dictates Carels must continue his elite play for Team Canada to reach its gold medal aspirations.
https://www.tsn.ca/video/2025/12/27/mckenna-whips-a-pass-to-martin-who-buries-first-goal-for-canada