USA Hockey has revealed the preliminary roster for its 2024 U.S. National Junior Team, consisting of 29 talented players, including eight members of the bronze medal-winning 2023 U.S. National Junior Team. These players have been selected to attend a training camp at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan, from December 14th to 16th. During this camp, they will have the opportunity to audition for a spot on the final 25-player roster that will represent the United States in the upcoming 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden, scheduled from December 26th, 2023, to January 5th, 2024.

The preliminary roster covers various positions, including three goaltenders, ten defensemen, and sixteen forwards. Hailing from different states across the United States, this talented group represents the depth and diversity of American ice hockey. Leading the way is Minnesota, with seven representatives in the preliminary roster.

Among the 29 players, 24 have already been drafted by NHL teams. Impressively, there are 10 first-round selections and seven second-round choices. This strong presence of drafted players showcases the level of talent and potential that Team USA possesses.

Preparations for the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship are in full swing, with the team management expressing excitement about the selected group. John Vanbiesbrouck, general manager of the 2024 U.S. National Junior Team and assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey, commended the available pool of talent in the United States. He emphasized the crucial role of dedicated volunteers across the country in helping develop young players.

The final roster for Team USA is expected to be announced by December 17th. USA Hockey has a remarkable record in recent IIHF World Junior Championships, having medaled in six out of the last eight tournaments. Their bronze medal-winning performance in the 2023 event has set the bar high for the upcoming championship in Sweden.

Noteworthy points include the fact that 21 of the players have previously been part of the USA Hockey National Team Development Program. Out of these, 18 were full-time members of the two-year residency program. It is important to mention that the NTDP competes in the USHL, which remains the only Tier I junior league in the United States.

In terms of higher education, 26 out of the 29 players are currently playing or committed to playing NCAA Division I men's hockey. Three players are presently competing in the OHL. Boston College dominates the representation with eight players, including seven who are currently playing and one set to join the BC program next season.

Hockey enthusiasts and fans have the opportunity to witness the U.S. training camp in Plymouth, Michigan, as it is open to the public. Daily practices will take place starting at 11:30 a.m. ET.

The 2024 U.S. National Junior Team is under the guidance of head coach David Carle from the University of Denver, with assistant coaches Steve Miller from the University of Minnesota, Brett Larson from St. Cloud State University, and Garrett Raboin from Augustana University. David Lassonde, from USA Hockey, completes the coaching staff as the goaltending coach.

Team USA will begin their preliminary games against Group B opponents Czechia, Norway, Slovakia, and Switzerland in the upcoming 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. Group A will consist of Canada, Finland, Germany, Latvia, and Sweden.

For more details and information about the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, please visit the official website of USA Hockey.