World Juniors 2016: Canada vs Czech Republic preview, TV schedule, lineups, and game thread

UPDATE: Recap and highlights of Canada's 1-0 win over the Czech Republic

After a dominant 7-1 win over Belarus, Team Canada will face a stronger Czech Republic team today in their second pre-tournament game.

The defending champions got off to a great start versus the Belorussians, scoring five goals in the first period. Dylan Strome, Travis Konecny, Brayden Point, Travis Dermott, and Jake Virtanen all found the back of the net. The Canadian momentum was slowed down by a parade to the penalty box in the second frame, although they returned to their strong offensive game in the third, with goals from Travis Dermott and Jake Virtanen. Save for the lack of discipline in the second period, it was a strong first outing for Canada.

Unlike Belarus, the Czech Republic features a relatively strong list of players, including prospects with an impressive skill set.

All three of their goaltenders were selected in an NHL draft. Vítek Vaněček was a Capitals second-round pick in 2014, whereas Aleš Stezka and Daniel Vladař were selected in the 2015 draft, in the third and fourth round respectively. On defense they'll rely primarly on Jakub Zbořil, one of Boston's first-round picks in the 2015, with draft-eligible Filip Hronek and Dominik Mašín providing support.

Unfortunately for the Czechs, they'll be without the services of David Pastrnak, at least for the time being, as the Bruins seem to be taking their time deciding whether or not he'll be released for the tournament. Pastrnak is clearly their best possible forward, although New Jersey first-round pick Pavel Zacha should provide a much-needed offensive boost. Filip Chlapík, Šimon Stránský, David Kaše, and Michael Špačeky round out the list of talented forwards, and are worth keeping an eye on.

You can watch the game on TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, TSN5, RDS, or streaming on TSN GO. You can listen to the game on the TSN radio network.

Puck drop is at 10:00 AM EST / 7:00 AM PST.