It’s the summer. It’s hot out. Time for some hockey!

The World Junior Summer Showcase begins today in Plymouth, MI (a Detroit suburb). Maple Leafs prospects playing in the tournament include: Joseph Woll, Timothy Liljegren, and Eemeli Rasanen.

Today’s schedule:

USA White vs. Finland 1 p.m.

USA Blue vs. Sweden 4 p.m.

Woll will be playing on USA Blue; both the USA and Canada have two squads at the tournament. There’s a lot at stake in this tournament for the split squads, if they don’t go over, they can win both showcases!

Watch for goalie Dylan St-Cyr on USA White. He is draft eligible next year, and is the son of another rather famous NHL goalie.

ICYMI

Here’s what we wrote about yesterday.

2017 Top 25 Under 25: The case for Trevor Moore - Gunnrcarlsson
Trevor Moore didn’t make the cut but here’s why he should have

The Marlies roster may feature Liljegren and these other new faces next season - Me Meet the new players projected to play for the Marlies next season.

Other News

Maple Leafs balancing veteran additions with youth - Fanrag
A number of the veterans the Leafs had last season signed elsewhere on July 1, leaving them roster space to find a new source of experience..

Predators sign Johansen to 8-year contract - On the Forecheck
The Nashville Predators have agreed to an 8 year deal with restricted free agent Ryan Johansen. The contract puts Joey’s value at $8 million per year, which is a bargain.
[Species: Is it? Vote in the poll below.]

Loktionov looks to make KHL-to-NHL Jump - Jewels From The Crown
The onetime L.A. Kings player is getting a chance to be this year’s Professional Tryout Success Story, but the history of similar players moving back to the NHL is spotted.

Nill is writing the book on how to trade for forward talent - Defending Big D
Since becoming the general manager of the Dallas Stars, Jim Nill has been simply the best at acquiring high-end talent up front. Does anyone even compete?

Is Johansen’s new $8M AAV eight year contract a “bargain”?

It’s not a bargain, but it’s fine249
It’s a bad deal. They’ll regret it in a few years.149
It’s a bargain. This is what you have to pay these days, if not more.54
From The Branches