Caleb Desnoyers Enhances Canada’s World Junior Camp with Golden Performance

Caleb Desnoyers has established himself as a rising star in Canadian hockey, highlighted by a remarkable track record of success. The 6-foot-2 center secured three gold medals in a span of nine months, achieving victories at the 2023 World Hockey Challenge, the 2024 Under-18 World Hockey Championship, and the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

Preparing for the World Juniors

Desnoyers is currently participating in Team Canada’s training camp in anticipation of the 2026 World Junior Championship, which will be held in Minnesota. This experience holds significant value as he prepares to wear the Maple Leaf once again.

“Wearing the Maple Leaf is the best thing. There’s nothing you can compare to it,” Desnoyers stated during an interview. He conveyed his eagerness to compete at a high level and to excel in front of an international audience.

Past Performance and Current Pressure

Canada’s recent history in the World Juniors has been challenging, finishing fifth in both the 2024 tournament in Sweden and the following year in Ottawa. Despite these setbacks, Desnoyers views the pressure as a motivational force rather than a burden.

“I’m excited to see how the environment is going to be. The coaching staff and Hockey Canada create a supportive atmosphere,” he remarked. Desnoyers believes the team-focused mentality will help everyone perform their best and aim for gold.

Achieving the Golden Goal

Among his many achievements, Desnoyers is especially proud of the “Golden Goal” he scored at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. This game-winning goal solidified Canada’s 2-1 victory over Czechia. He humorously mentioned it came after a penalty he took in the later part of the game.

Season Highlights and Championships

At just 18 years old, Desnoyers has built an impressive hockey resume, achieving notable success at various levels. He played a pivotal role in leading the Moncton Wildcats to the Gilles-Courteau Trophy during the QMJHL Championship Series, ultimately finishing second in QMJHL playoff scoring.

• Goals: 9
• Points: 30 in 19 playoff games

He was honored with the Guy Lafleur Trophy, recognizing him as the most valuable player in the playoffs. Desnoyers values team success above individual accolades, illustrating his commitment to the game and his teammates.

Playoff Experience and Learning Opportunities

The championship series against Rimouski provided Desnoyers with a valuable learning experience. Leading 3-0, the Wildcats faced strong competition as Rimouski fought back, ultimately claiming the trophy in a tightly contested series.

“Experience is invaluable in hockey,” stated Desnoyers, reflecting on the intensity of the playoff atmosphere.

Future Aspirations and Decisions

After an outstanding 2024-25 season, Desnoyers was drafted fourth overall by the Utah Mammoth in the 2025 NHL Draft. However, a wrist injury required surgery, restricting his participation in rookie and main training camps. Nonetheless, he found value in connecting with his new teammates.

Desnoyers was faced with important decisions regarding his hockey career. After weighing his options, he chose to return to the Moncton Wildcats for the 2025-26 season, where he was named captain.

• Goal: To play in the NHL as soon as possible
• Objective: Gain experience and mileage in pursuit of professional success

Having chosen to stay with the Wildcats under the guidance of head coach Gardiner MacDougall and general manager Taylor MacDougall, Desnoyers is excited about the upcoming season and his continued development.