Zayne Parekh set a new standard for defensemen in Canada’s final game against Finland for the bronze medal in the 2026 World Juniors.

The 19-year old no. 9 overall 2024 Calgary Flames draft pick made a huge impact on Canada’s journey through the World Juniors. 

On Monday, Jan. 5, he became the top-scoring Canadian defenseman at a single World Juniors. He also earned the most goals by defenseman (5) and is tied for 2nd with Michael Hage (MTL) at the top of the 2026 World Juniors leaderboard.

NO CANADIAN DEFENCEMAN HAS MORE POINTS AT ONE #WORLDJUNIORS THAN ZAYNE PAREKH! 🇨🇦

AUCUN AUTRE DÉFENSEUR CANADIEN N’A OBTENU PLUS DE POINTS LORS D’UN #MONDIALJUNIOR QUE ZAYNE PAREKH! 🇨🇦@OHFHockey | @NHLFlames pic.twitter.com/07p2ctHIho

— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) January 5, 2026

Parekh scored at least point in each of Canada’s seven games, including two goals in their opening game in the preliminary round against Czechia. He averaged over 19 minutes and played a pivotal role on the power play.

Watch Zayne Parekh’s Record-breaking Assist

PAREKH. IGINLA. MARTONE.

Canada leads 4-2.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/nSdwp9N5Y9

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 5, 20262026 World Juniors Medal Game ScheduleMonday, January 54:30 p.m. ET – Bronze Medal Game – Canada Vs. Finland8:30 p.m. ET – Gold Medal Game – Sweden Vs. CzechiaFollow FloHockey’s Coverage Of The 2026 World Junior Championship

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