BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The U.S. National Junior Hockey team will rely on a heavy influence of Hockey East players in preparing to defend its world championship in Buffalo this winter.
In announcing a 29-player, pre-tournament camp roster Tuesday, general manager Jim Johannson selected nine from the Massachusetts-based conference. It’s a group featuring five of the 10 defensemen invited, and four Boston College players. The WCHA is second with seven players on the list.
Camp opens Dec. 16, and officials have until Dec. 23 to set their 22-player roster. The U.S. opens the tournament playing Finland on Dec. 26.
Goalie Jack Campbell is one of eight who played on last year’s team, which beat Canada 6-5 in overtime of the championship game.
