Hockey prospects gain international experience at major tournaments

Two young hockey prospects are gaining significant international experience through recent tournament call-ups.

Adam Gajan, a 22-year-old goaltending prospect for the Chicago Blackhawks, recently participated with Team Slovakia during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Although he did not play in the tournament games, Gajan noted the value of observing NHL players' preparations. Following a strong season at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, Gajan aims to develop further at the Blackhawks' AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.

In a separate development, 16-year-old Sawyer Schmidt was called up to the USA roster for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. After initially being left off the roster, Schmidt joined the team in Edmonton and helped the USA secure a 5-2 victory over Slovakia in the semi-finals. Schmidt, who plays for the Saginaw Spirit, will participate in the gold medal game against either Canada or Finland.