Edmonton Oilers benched in World Juniors, bounces back next game

Before that, Team Canada played their opening match against the Finnish squad, emerging victorious by a score of 4-0.

Although things started off strong for the Canadians, Edmonton Oilers prospect Beau Akey found himself riding the bench, playing a mere total of 2:38 TOI.

According to Ryan Hall of Oilers Daily, Oilers defensive prospect Beau Akey only played 2 minutes and 38 seconds of ice time for Team Canada as the Canadians went on to beat the Finns 4-0.

After bobbling a play and not looking comfortable on the ice, Head Coach David Cameron decided to keep Akey on the bench.

Although the Canadians ultimately got the win, it was tough to see Beau Akey sitting on the bench for the majority of the game.

Fans immediately assumed he'd be relegated to a bottom role for the remainder of the tournament, but head coach Cameron decided to give the Oilers prospect another shot against Latvia.

Matthew Schaefer had been injured after playing just 2:08. In his stead, Edmonton Oilers prospect Beau Akey stepped up and played 14:34 for Team Canada.

He fired one shot on the net and didn't play at all in overtime.

Although Akey played almost 15 minutes, it's clear team Canada may not be the elite team fans initially thought they were.

Team Canada ended up losing the game in a shootout 3-2 after pummelling them 10-2 the year prior -- embarrassing to say the least.

Akey who is currently playing for the Barrie Colts of the OHL was drafted by the Oilers in 2023, second round 56th overall. He has played 25 games this year, scoring four goals with 15 assists and 19 points along with 24 penalty minutes.

While Beau Akey is still the Oilers top defence prospect, he will need to tap into his offensive skill if Team Canada wants any chance at staying relevant in this tournament.