Chicago Blackhawks' A.J. Spellacy Makes Team USA World Juniors Roster

Spellacy has quietly climbed the ranks this season with the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL, blending size, speed and a strong two-way game that caught USA Hockey's attention early in camp.

Standing 6-3 and drafted 72nd overall in 2024, he now gets the chance to represent his country at the pinnacle of Under-20 hockey.

This isn't Spellacy's first brush with international attention, as he landed on the preliminary 28-man camp roster in December and impressed through training camp in Duluth, Minnesota.

There's genuine buzz among Blackhawks fans about Spellacy's rise, since he isn't just a name on the roster but a player who earned his place with effort and improvement. His physical edge and willingness to engage in board battles give Chicago a prospect who brings more than just skill to the table.

Team USA's final World Junior squad is a blend of top NCAA talent, CHL standouts, and a handful of future NHLers-and Spellacy's inclusion shows the trust USA Hockey has in his development heading into the tournament on home ice in Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The roster announcement ahead of the Dec. 26-Jan. 5 championship makes this one of the most anticipated U.S. entries in years.

For Spellacy, this tournament is about showcasing his game against the best peers in the world.

While he's projected as a bottom-six wing, his skill set-particularly his hockey IQ and shot-means he could contribute more if he finds chemistry with linemates. Making this roster also keeps the pressure on for other Blackhawks prospects watching from afar.

Spellacy signed a three-year entry-level contract with Chicago earlier this year, underscoring the organization's belief in his future. The World Juniors will be a major test and a spotlight that could accelerate his path toward the NHL.