Overcoming adversity and finding his groove again is what 19-year-old Calgary Flames defenceman, Zayne Parekh, intends to achieve in the upcoming world junior hockey championship. Known for his positive and relaxed demeanor, Parekh has been given the nickname “ankle-breaker” due to his exceptional skill on the ice. He’s known to leave his opponents stumbling with his quick and deceptive movements. Now, Parekh is looking to channel this skill and energy into sparking his game with Team Canada at the world juniors.
Zayne Parekh’s Journey in the NHL
In his first full NHL season, Parekh suffered an upper-body injury, putting a temporary halt to his journey. However, the Flames’ General Manager, Craig Conroy, saw this setback as an opportunity for Parekh to join Canada’s world junior hockey championship team. “The biggest thing that they noticed was some days I wasn’t always having that smile on my face like I usually do,” Parekh said. He eagerly accepted the offer, hoping to regain his confidence and have fun on the ice again.
Boost for Canada’s World Junior Team
Parekh’s decision to join the under-20 national program was a significant boost for the team. Despite his minimal contribution to the Flames in terms of assists, Parekh proved his worth at Canada’s training camp. He demonstrated his elite offensive skills, which he had developed while playing with the Saginaw Spirit, where he scored 33 goals and 107 points in the 2024-25 season. His exceptional performance placed him among the top-ranking Canadian Hockey League blueliners.
The ‘Ankle-Breaker’
Dale Hunter, coach of Team Canada, referred to Parekh as a “dynamic” player and an “ankle-breaker.” He noted Parekh’s exceptional hands, vision, and ability to deceive his opponents with head fakes. Parekh’s impressive skill set was further demonstrated in his performances against Canadian university players during last year’s selection camp. However, he was unfortunately cut from the team. Despite this setback, Parekh chose not to harbor any bitterness, but instead focused on his desire to be part of the team.
Expectations for Parekh
Alan Millar, General Manager of Canada’s world junior setup, expressed his expectations of Parekh. He emphasized the need for Parekh’s skills not just in power plays, but in other situations as well. With Parekh’s elite offensive skills, Millar believes he will be a significant asset to the team. Parekh also expressed his realization of the vast difference in skill levels between the OHL and the Flames. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic, trusting in the process and his ability to adapt.
Teammates’ Praise for Parekh
Parekh’s smooth and calm approach to high-pressure situations earned him the admiration of his teammates. Canadian star forward, Gavin McKenna, praised his composure and skill. “He’s just so calm and so smooth and so silky. His edge work, his hands, his brain, he makes all these good plays, and he does it so calmly. He’s a rare defender,” McKenna said. Parekh’s offensive ability, deceptive skills, and confidence were also lauded by centre Cole Beaudoin.
Parekh’s Approach to the Game
Parekh’s confidence with the puck started at a young age, playing up a year in minor hockey until his under-16 campaign. “The most fun hockey can be is playing with the puck,” he said. Parekh is keen to bring his expertise to the world junior hockey championship team, unfazed by the spotlight or pressure. His experience in the NHL and other major games have prepared him for the upcoming tournament. “The moment’s not gonna be any bigger than it should be,” he confidently stated.
