Sutter to finalize junior roster in a week

TORONTO All 25 players attending the Canadian world junior selection camp have passed their first test.

They’re all off to Europe and will be part of the team for the first of three pre-tournament games on Dec. 20 against Finland in Angelholm, Sweden. That’s when the line could end for some of them.

“I’d like to have the decision pretty firm in my head before our last two exhibition games,” head coach Brent Sutter said about finalizing his 22man roster. Returning forward Jonathan Drouin didn’t skate in Toronto as he’s still recovering from a concussion. Josh Morrissey, an 18-yearold defenceman with the Prince Albert Raiders, was held out from Saturday’s exhibition game because of a lingering ailment. The selection camp consisted of just one practice and one exhibition contest. Sunday’s on-ice session was cancelled.

Sutter has heard no updates about whether or not the Toronto Maple Leafs or Calgary Flames will loan Morgan Rielly or Sean Monahan respectively to the team.

They must make a decision by Thursday when the NHL roster freeze begins.