It’s not common, but it happens.

On rare occasions, a double underage draft eligible participates at the World Junior Championship. Aleksander Barkov, drafted second overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2013 NHL Draft, accomplished the feat two years ago in representing Finland. Leon Draisaitl, eligible in 2014, did the same last year when representing Germany.

The 2014 World Junior Championship could feature three highly regarded prospects for 2015.

Connor McDavid, regarded as the next big thing in the game, has a chance to really make his mark for Canada as the first 16-year old to be invited since Sidney Crosby donned the Maple Leaf in 2003.  He has the poise, vision and ability to anticipate opponents like few his age ever have. It will be top six scoring role on Canada’s entry or bust for McDavid.

Much like McDavid, Jake Eichel has a chance to earn an important role on Team USA’s entry.

One of if not the top offensive player with an impressive U18 NTDP team this year, Eichel plays a power game that incorporates strong puck skills and a heavy shot. He too is not going to be a tag along if selected to play in Malmo.

Pavel Zacha, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound pivot, looks like a man among boys at the U20 level despite being three or four years younger then most. He should be able to play his impressive power game that has many thinking he could be a Top-10 selection in 2015 and contribute immediately for the Czech Republic in Malmo.