USA Hockey released their 23-player 2017-2018 World Juniors roster this morning after winning both exhibition games this week. San Jose Sharks top prospect Joshua Norris has made the cut and will look to help team USA in his first ever appearance.
Norris is an 18-year-old, six-foot-one stud from Michigan and is currently playing for the University of Michigan in NCAA Division I. Norris was selected with the 19th overall draft pick in the 2017 NHL entry draft by the Sharks and is currently one of the top prospects in the system, voted number 11 by readers in Fear the Fin’s Top 25 Under 25 series this summer.
In 16 games during his freshman NCAA season so far, Norris has registered four goals and five assists for a total of nine points while playing under 13 minutes a game. Norris really made a name for himself last year while playing for the U.S. National Under-18 team where he put up 61 points in 61 games and seven points in seven games in the Under-18 WJC.
Norris is thought of as a unique playmaker who has patience with the puck and opens up lanes to drive the net and create chances. One of the youngest players announced to the team, Norris’ role is simple; drive the net hard, make a name for himself, and take quick and aggressive shifts.
On a stacked Team USA roster, with many familiar names — including Oilers prospect Kailer Yamamoto — Norris to be playing bottom-six minutes for the team while playing a major penalty kill role. Norris will also gain valuable experience from his first ever World Juniors tournament.
USA begins their quest for back-to-back gold medals on Boxing Day against Denmark at 8 pm ET. Let’s go, Norris!
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