9 cut from Canadian WJHC

[Lee]

Some surprising names; from TSN:

Canada's national junior men's hockey team made its first round of cuts on Tuesday morning, with nine of their expected 18 releases sent home early.

Forwards going back to junior are Portland Winterhawks left wing Brad Ross, Brendan Gallagher of the Vancouver Giants, centre Joey Hishon and winger Garrett Wilson of the Owen Sound Attack, Medicine Hat Tigers centre Linden Vey and Chilliwack's Ryan Howse.

Right winger Reilly Smith was also released and sent back to Miami University of the CCHA.

Brayden McNabb of the Kootenay Ice and Owen Sound's Jesse Blacker were the only defencemen to be let go.

The remaining players at selection camp will dress for Tuesday night's game against the Canadian University National Team.

Assuming this year's squad goes with 13 forwards, seven defencemen and two goaltenders, there are still four forwards, three blueliners and two goalies left to release.

Head coach Dave Cameron and his staff will make those final cuts on Wednesday morning, when the 22-man roster is finalized for the 2011 World Junior Hockey Championship beginning on Boxing Day.

Details to follow.