Wild Top Draft Pick Helps Lift Team USA at World Juniors

(KNSI) – Team USA defended its World Juniors crown this weekend, thanks to a key contribution from the 2024 Minnesota Wild’s first-round draft pick.

Defenseman Zeev Buium was given the primary assist on the goal at 8:04 into overtime, freeing winger Teddy Stiga on a breakaway. The only thing prettier than Buium’s stretch pass was the finish.

Buium is no stranger to St. Cloud. The California native plays for Denver in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference. The Pioneers and Huskies have dueled several times during his career, including the 2024 Frozen Faceoff at the Xcel Energy Center.

Buium was taken 12th overall by Minnesota in the last draft. His slide was a surprise to many hockey analysts. Most expected Buium to be off the board in the top five, top ten at worst.

The club hopes to see him contribute in big moments in green and red soon. The Wild are still looking for their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance.

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