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Wednesday was the sixth day of the World Junior Summer Showcase to help determine the rosters for the United States, Canada, Finland and Sweden at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, to be held in Ottawa from Dec. 26-Jan. 5.

PLYMOUTH, Mich. — James Hagens and Cole Eiserman showed why they could be on the United States’ top line at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship during a 5-3 loss to Finland at USA Hockey Arena on Wednesday.

Hagens, who is expected to be the top pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, played center with Eiserman on the left wing. Eiserman, who was chosen by the New York Islanders in the first round (No. 20) of the 2024 NHL Draft, scored a goal in the first period with Hagens’ assistance. They continued to create opportunities for each other throughout the game, both during 5-on-5 play and on the top power-play unit.

Last season, they were teammates on the Under-18 team of the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, with most of their time together spent on the power play. They haven’t consistently been linemates at 5-on-5 since the 2022-23 season with the NTDP Under-17 team.

“Eiserman said, “It felt good to reunite with him. He’s an excellent player and it was pleasant to reestablish that connection.”

I somewhat understand his actions and he somewhat understands mine. It’s a situation that is quite enjoyable as we can predict each other’s moves.

Hagens effortlessly read the goal, forcing a turnover at Finland’s blue line. He skated down the left slot and instinctively knew Eiserman was open on the other side for a one-timer, without even needing to look.

“Hagens said, “It’s quite comforting to have a player like that on the ice with you. You know that if you pass the puck to him while you’re waiting for him to come into the play, he’s definitely going to score.”

David Carle, the U.S. coach, is not prepared to commit to any lines almost five months prior to the start of the WJC. However, Eiserman and Hagens are aware that Carle has noticed their chemistry together.

“Eiserman stated, “He’s intelligent and aware of what works and what doesn’t. I’m simply endeavoring to do my best with him and see what transpires.”

Here are three things learned Wednesday:

Kumpulainen starts with ‘C’

On Wednesday, Rasmus Kumpulainen had the honor of serving as captain for Finland.

“Obviously it means a lot,” the Minnesota Wild forward prospect said. “Our captain, (Detroit Red Wings forward prospect) Jesse Kiiskinen, wasn’t playing today and I was an assistant before that, but captaincy or just being part of the captaincy is a big thing. Whether you wear the ‘C’ or the ‘A,’ you’ve just got to be a leader. So it’s a big thing for me.”

Kumpulainen, a scorer in the third period, is among four returning players from the team that ranked fourth at the 2024 World Juniors. He netted two goals in seven games during that tournament. Chosen as the 53rd pick in the second round by the Wild in the 2023 NHL Draft, Kumpulainen is set to celebrate his 19th birthday on August 8. He anticipates taking on a more significant role at the 2025 WJC.

“He declared, “Last year was a valuable experience, even though I didn’t play much. This year, I am eager to play a bigger role. I want to be the key player who makes crucial decisions and plays significant minutes.”

He’s preparing for the WJC with the Pelicans in Liiga, Finland’s premier professional men’s league. Last season, he scored 56 points (28 goals, 28 assists) in 58 games with the Ontario Hockey League’s Oshawa. However, having grown from last season’s stature of 6-foot-1 and 191 pounds, he now believes that playing against more mature competitors is a more suitable option for him this season.

He admitted, “Making this decision wasn’t easy… I believe it’s now best for me to compete against men. Being 6-3 and over 200 pounds, I think it’s logical to go pro and prepare myself to eventually join the NHL.”

Emery’s unique warmup plan

EJ Emery has a pretty unique routine for relaxing before games.

Approximately an hour before Wednesday’s game, the New York Rangers’ prospective defenseman stepped onto the bench with a few pucks. His initial try was to throw them into the face-off dot on the distant side of the ice.

Following this, he positioned himself in the bench doorway, stick in hand, and mimed the plays he anticipated making in the upcoming game.

“He said, “I attempt to maintain a relaxed attitude to distract myself from the anticipation of the game. I aim to enjoy myself on the field.””

Rangers defenseman prospect EJ Emery has an interesting way of getting the hands ready before today’s game vs. Finland at the World Junior Summer Showcase. pic.twitter.com/dqNrfM2xr4

— Adam Kimelman (@NHLAdamK) July 31, 2024

Emery, who was chosen by the Rangers as the 30th pick in the first round of the 2024 draft, began practicing puck-flipping and visualization with the NTDP U-17 team during the 2022-23 season. He used this routine to soothe himself before games, and believes this practice has enhanced his performance.

“He admitted, “Sometimes, I feel overly introspective. I devised a method to enjoy myself and unwind. Instead of constantly thinking about the game, I simply concentrate on having a good time.”

Some power in Powell

Noah Powell incorporates on-ice conditioning into his preparations for the season. However, the inclusion of jujitsu and boxing in his off-ice training routine has notably contributed to his increased endurance.

“The Philadelphia Flyers forward prospect stated, “Jujitsu is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise, thus it doesn’t wear out or damage your knees or shoulders. However, it can be a bit risky, so caution is necessary. It’s engaging, distinct, and enjoyable. To be proficient, a certain level of flexibility is required, something that I initially lacked, so I’m currently improving that aspect.”

Boxing revolves around physical strength, balance, and footwork, all of which I needed. Moreover, these elements were closely linked to the aspect of conditioning.

Philadelphia’s fifth-round pick (No. 148) in the 2024 draft, Powell, topped the United States Hockey League last season with 43 goals and 16 power-play goals in 61 games for Dubuque. He is slated to play for Ohio State University this fall. Powell has distinguished himself as one of the standout forwards among the 25 representing the United States at the showcase, which continues until Saturday.

“Growing up, making this team has always been a dream,” said Powell. “Everyone tunes into this tournament during Christmas break, so it would be a monumental achievement.”

NHL.com senior draft writer Mike G. Morreale contributed to this report