Lazar named captain of Canada World Junior team

Center Curtis Lazar was named captain of the Canadian National Junior Team that will compete in the 2015 IIHF World Junior Championship in Montreal and Toronto beginning Dec. 26, according to Hockey Canada.

Lazar, a first-round draft pick (No. 17) by the Ottawa Senators in the 2013 NHL Draft, played for Canada at the 2014 WJC in Malmo, Sweden. He had three goals and seven points as Canada finished fourth.

Additionally, forwards Sam Reinhart (Buffalo Sabres) and Connor McDavid (2015 draft eligible) will serve as alternate captains.

"Curtis, Connor and Sam have all represented Canada internationally on several occasions and bring great experience and leadership to these roles," Canada coach Benoit Groulx told the Hockey Canada website. "While these three players will wear letters, this team is blessed with many leaders and success will take a collective effort at all levels, including on the leadership side."

Canada will play against Switzerland on Tuesday in its final pre-tournament game before opening the 2015 WJC in Group A against Slovakia on Dec. 26 at Bell Centre in Montreal.