The 2026 IIHF World Championships are set to ignite Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland, from May 15 through May 31—and eight Boston Bruins are taking their talents to the international stage. For fans of the black and gold, this tournament offers a thrilling preview of rising stars and seasoned pros representing four nations on hockey's biggest spring showcase.
Team USA leads the Bruins' contingent with three players: James Hagens, Mason Lohrei, and Alex Steeves. Hagens, making his senior men's team debut on Friday, is no stranger to the red, white, and blue—he's worn it many times before. The Long Island native cracked Boston's lineup for five games in April, marking his NHL debut. But there's still room to grow, and former Bruins assistant Marco Sturm knows the value of this tournament firsthand. He recalled coaching Leon Draisaitl at the Worlds and emphasized how crucial it is for young players to compete against men. "It takes time," Sturm noted, but the Bruins want to see Hagens "be a man as quick as possible."
Lohrei returns to the World Championships after capturing gold with Team USA last year—one of just two returners on the squad. He posted a career-high in goals this season, though he sat out the final three games of Boston's postseason run. Steeves, a late addition to the U.S. roster, is representing his home country for the first time since the 2017 World Junior A Challenge, adding fresh energy to a talented lineup.
Canada boasts Fraser Minten, who captained the nation at the 2024 World Junior Championships and now makes his men's team debut. Like Hagens, Minten is still early in his development, but a full 82-game NHL season under his belt has him ready for this next step. And what a stage to take it on—he'll share the ice with Sidney Crosby, a member of the IIHF's elite "Triple Gold" club (Olympic gold, Stanley Cup, World Championship). For a young player, that's an education money can't buy.
Finland sends two Bruins: Henri Jokiharju and an unnamed second player. Jokiharju found himself in and out of Boston's lineup after returning from an injury in January, but he's no stranger to big moments—he played for Finland at the Winter Olympics. The Worlds offer him a chance to find his footing again on international ice.
Germany adds Lukas Reichel, a late addition to the roster on Thursday afternoon for his fifth World Championship appearance. Czechia rounds out the Bruins' representation with one player, rounding out a diverse and exciting group.
Whether you're tracking future stars like Hagens and Minten, or cheering on veterans like Lohrei and Jokiharju, the 2026 World Championships are a must-watch for Bruins fans. Grab your favorite team gear, mark your calendars, and get ready to see Boston's best shine on the global stage.