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PITTSBURGH, PA - JULY 08: Markus and Liam Ruck talk to Bob Nutting prior to throwing the ceremonial first pitch prior to the game between the Atlanta Braves and the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rayni Shiring/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The Penguins don’t have any representatives at the upcoming Team Canada summer showcase, an event that’s an on ramp for the December World Junior team.
In a sense, it’s a surprise since Pittsburgh second round pick Markus Ruck led the WHL in points (108). Twin brother and first round pick Liam was second in WHL scoring (104).
Then again, it’s difficult for 18-year olds to rise to the top for Team Canada competitions with their deep bench of talent. Only three 2026 first round picks were invited, two second rounders known for size and/or aggressive style as potential fourth line players for the event were also invited, with the bulk of the team coming as 19-year olds that were products of the 2025 draft. The Rucks weren’t the only high 2026 Canadian forwards not to get an invite, J.P Hurlbert and Jaxon Cover aren’t going either. There’s no Tynan Lawrence or Maxim Dagenais either, though they’ll be at the Ivan Hlinka U-18 tournament for Canada this summer. Neither is Gavin McKenna going, though surely because it’s figured he wouldn’t be released from the NHL to attend the upcoming tournament.
Harrison Brunicke played for Canada in the WJC’s last year, Ben Kindel was unavailable in the NHL.
The Rucks might have better luck next year, when they’re 19 and still eligible for the tournament. Their lack of selection to the summer showcase doesn’t automatically end their possibility to get picked for this year’s event, though reasonably it seems like that avenue is closed off barring a major change of heart by the Team Canada admins.
The US has released their summer camp roster previously, Pens draft picks Will Horcoff (injured) and Charlie Tretheway are going.
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