Smiles, celebrations, drama, shouts of joy and disaster – no, we’re not talking about Christmas dinner. It’s time to get rocking with the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship in Minnesota! And of course, the Power Rankings are back to make your life better. The ultra-talented and deep Canadians – hungry to win their first gold medal since 2023 after two straight quarter-final exits – start off in first place. Close behind in second place are the host Americans, the two-time defending champions. The Swedes, who own one silver and two bronze medals in the 2020’s, begin in third place. Whatever happens from here, remember the words of the late, legendary Minneapolis-born coach Bob Johnson: “It’s a great day for hockey!”

Click here to check out the previous editions of the Power Rankings.

The Power Rankings are for the enjoyment of IIHF.com readers, and reflect the progress of teams during the IIHF World Junior Championship. They are distinct from the official standings and IIHF World Ranking.