It looks like the Calgary Flames won’t have any representation on Team Canada’s World Juniors team this year, as Zayne Parekh was cut by the team after being a late invite to camp. Parekh was originally invited as a potential replacement for defender Harrison Brunicke, who was sidelined with an injury. The official roster for the team was released Friday afternoon.
#Flames first-round pick Zayne Parekh was among Friday's cuts from the Canadian world-junior team. Will be eligible again next winter.
— Wes Gilbertson (@WesGilbertson) December 13, 2024
Parekh was the ninth overall pick by the Flames in the 2024 NHL Draft. He’s seen as being a future star blueliner with incredible offensive capabilities. In 25 games with the Saginaw spirit this season, Parekh has 10 goals and 34 points.
Parekh’s cut a disappointment for many Flames fans
Parekh still remains eligible for the 2026 World Juniors, but his exclusion from this year’s tournament have left many Flames fans shocked and disappointed.
Team Canada’s qualification camps are always competitive, but for a player of Parekh’s status to not make the team is a head-scratching. Last season, Parekh was a Memorial Cup champion with the Spirit and put up an impressive 33 goals and 96 points in 66 regular season games. Additionally, he was also named the top defenceman in the OHL.
It’s a shame to not see Parekh sporting Team Canada colours this year. His skillset would bring a lot to the table, and it’s also a great way for fans to see top prospects for their teams compete against one another. Nonetheless, let’s hope Parekh finds a spot on Team Canada next year and proves the team wrong for skipping on him. The Flames will only have one prospect attending the tournament this year in Axel Hurtig, who will be representing Team Sweden.
