Before we know it, the return of National Hockey League action is quietly approaching, with the season set to begin in September.
It's been a very long summer; aside from the Montreal Canadiens' development camp, Montreal hockey fans haven't had much to look forward to.
Fortunately, in recent days and weeks, there's been the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup for the most die-hard hockey fans.
The tournament brings together eight teams from eight different countries, each showcasing their top under-18 talent.
It's a competition that allows young players to make a name for themselves before the start of their NHL draft year, which often gives us a heads-up on the top picks to come.
And let's just say there are likely to be several Canadian players, given that Canada has dominated this year's Hlinka-Gretzky Cup.
In fact, the grand final took place yesterday—obviously between the United States and Canada—and the Canadian team made short work of the American squad.
Canada routed the United States 8–1.
CANADA DEFEATS THE U.S. TO CAPTURE GOLD AT THE HLINKA GRETZKY CUP!
#HlinkaGretzkyCup pic.twitter.com/qnmWRTBziL
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) August 9, 2026
That's right—Canada defeated the United States, not Great Britain, by a score of 8–1, after outshhooting them 47–17.
Maddox Schulz (Player of the Game), Liam Pue, and Brock England each scored two goals, while prodigy defenseman Landon Dupont recorded four assists.
That makes it a tournament-best 6⃣ goals for Liam Pue!
Liam Pue brings his total to 6⃣ goals, a tournament high!
#HlinkaGretzkyCup | #CoupeHlinkaGretzky pic.twitter.com/0HTIaL7F0W
— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) August 9, 2026
Canada showed no mercy to the United States, which simply wasn't a match for the Canadian U-18 team.
It was sweet revenge for the Olympics, even though, ultimately, the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup is a minor tournament compared to the famous Olympic Games.
Still, it was clear that talent is still in abundance in Canada, and that the young players of the future are very talented.
We'll be keeping a close eye on them all this season.
In a Nutshell
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#HlinkaGretzkyCup