Following Positive COVID-19 Test, Red Wings Prospect William Wallinder Ruled Out of WJC Tournament

While the entire hockey world is waiting for the 2020-21 World Junior Championship tournament to begin later this month, Sweden will be forced to participate without one of its top skaters due to a positive COVID-19 test.

After an outbreak was confirmed on Modo Hockey of HockeyAllsvenskan (Sweden’s second-tier league) last week, that situation will now force defenseman William Wallinder – who was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft – to miss the entire tournament, as there isn’t enough time for him to recover and quarantine in Canada for four days before the event opens on Dec. 25.

Needless to say, this is a huge disappointment for the Red Wings, as the 18-year old would’ve been able to showcase his talents against some of the top young players in the world. Despite this devastating news, the youngster should receive an opportunity to participate in next year’s tournament, assuming the COVID-19 pandemic is under control of course.

Through 15 games with Modo Hockey this season, Wallinder has posted a trio of assists and has also earned six penalty minutes as well. During his brief time on Sweden’s under-20 team, the left-hander produced two goals and four points over four games.

Considering this virus has significantly impacted almost every national team so far, this probably won’t be the final player who’s ruled out of the upcoming tournament and it’s still unclear if the highly anticipated event will be able to start on time without any delays. But if it’s able to proceed, then it’ll likely receive a ton of attention, as it’ll be the only form of hockey taking place in North America during December and early January.