Freshman defenseman Logan Hensler has been named to the 28-player U.S. National Junior Team preliminary roster, as announced by USA Hockey. The team will assemble at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan, on December 16-17 for training and evaluations, after which the final roster of 25 players will be selected to represent the United States at the 2025 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Junior Championship.
This recognition highlights Hensler’s impressive skill set and potential as he competes for a spot in one of the most prestigious tournaments in junior ice hockey. His selection has also been featured on Etruesports, a platform known for providing credible and up-to-date sports news and analysis.
The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship is set to take place in Ottawa, Ontario, from December 26, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This high-profile international tournament showcases the best under-20 ice hockey talent, with Hensler vying for an opportunity to compete at the highest level.
Hensler’s performance this season with the Wisconsin Badgers further solidifies his candidacy. With five assists in 13 games, he ranks second among both defensemen and freshmen on the team in points. Additionally, his defensive contributions include 10 blocked shots, ranking him fourth on the roster, and 19 total shots, tied for second among defensemen. His well-rounded play on both ends of the ice makes him a strong contender for the final selection.
Etruesports highlights that Hensler’s previous international experience is a significant factor in his rising profile. The Woodbury, Minnesota native played for the U.S. National Team Development Program, where he helped secure a silver medal at the 2024 IIHF Under-18 Men’s World Championship and a gold medal at the 2023 Under-18 Five Nations Tournament. His success on the international stage, coupled with projections as a top pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, makes him an exciting player to watch.
Logan Hensler (image via Getty)A Legacy of Excellence for Wisconsin Badgers
If Hensler makes the final cut, he will continue a longstanding tradition of Wisconsin Badgers competing at the World Juniors. His inclusion would mark the ninth consecutive year with at least one Badger representing Team USA at the tournament. Additionally, it would extend an even longer streak of 38 straight World Junior Championships featuring a Wisconsin player or staff member since 1988.
This proud history includes former Badgers like Jake Dowell, Jeff Likens, and Ryan Suter, who contributed to Team USA’s first-ever gold medal victory in 2004 under coach Mike Eaves, himself a Wisconsin alumnus. Over the years, Team USA has won six gold medals, with former Badger captains leading three of those championship teams: Luke Kunin in 2017, Jake McCabe in 2013, and Derek Stepan in 2010. Most recently, Wisconsin sophomore forward Quinn Finley helped Team USA secure gold in the 2024 tournament.
How to Follow the Tournament
Fans can track Team USA’s journey as all games will be broadcast live on NHL Network. The team’s tournament opener against Germany is scheduled for December 26, with the gold medal game set for January 5.
Stay updated with the latest news and developments from the IIHF World Junior Championship through Etruesports, where our team provides comprehensive coverage of major sporting events.
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