On Thursday, USA Hockey announced their preliminary roster for the upcoming World Championships that are set to take place in Switzerland. Among the 22 skaters named, Detroit Red Wings defenseman Justin Faulk made the cut. In addition, 2024 second-round draft pick and Hobey Baker winning forward Max Plante made the cut.
Introducing the preliminary roster for the 2026 U.S. Men's National Team! 🇺🇸#MensWorlds roster details: https://t.co/A4ssxWDEM1 pic.twitter.com/dOqsTKgF2I
May 7, 2026Justin Faulk a familiar face with Team USA
This will be Faulk’s fourth time representing the United States at the senior level, having previously skated in the World Championships back in 2012, 2013 and 2015. In that time, Faulk has earned two bronze medals for himself. He'll look to fight for gold alongside fellow division rivals like Matthew Tkachuk and James Hagens.
The Red Wings acquired Faulk during the 2025-26 NHL trade deadline from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for the 15th overall pick during the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, a 2026 third-round draft pick, prospect Dmitri Buchelnikov and Justin Holl.Â
The 34-year-old Faulk appeared in 78 games with both the Red Wings and Blues, picking up 16 goals and 24 assists for 40 points -- nearly half a point-per-game. Eight of Faulk’s 40 points came following the trade as a member of the Red Wings.
He'll remain with the Red Wings next season with one year left on his deal making $6.5M. If current deployment is any indication, we'll see Faulk anchor the second pairing alongside Ben Chiarot or another defender.
Where Max Plante fits in the equation
This is the first time the 20-year-old Plante will represent the United States at the senior level. That said, this isn't his first time competing on the international stage. He skated for Team USA during the past two World Junior Championships, claiming gold during the 2025 tournament in Ottawa. He skated nine games over his last two tournaments, recording two goals and two assists for four points.
Plante wrapped his second season at the University of Minnesota-Duluth this year, recording the best season of his career so far. Plante finished his 40 game campaign with 25 goals and 27 assists, leading the Bulldogs in both goals and points.
This season, the 20-year-old won the Hobey Baker Memorial Award as the top NCAA men’s ice hockey player after finishing third overall in the NCAA in points. Plante is set to return to the Bulldogs next season but with the success he has showcased, a debut in Detroit is not too far down the road.Â
 This IIHF World Championship will be a perfect opportunity for Plante to showcase his stuff against tried and true NHL vets.
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