Assuming the role of Team Canada’s captain brings immense expectations and responsibility, yet Landon DuPont remains unfazed.
The 17‑year‑old defenseman has guided Canada to a flawless 3‑0 start at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, applying insights from last year’s competition and counsel from his father, a former Canadian international.
Landon’s family, particularly his father Micki, drives daily from Calgary along the Queen Elizabeth II Highway to attend the games. Micki enjoyed a nearly two‑decade professional playing career, appearing in 23 NHL games for the Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, and St. Louis Blues, and also earned caps for Canada, providing his son valuable perspective.
“DuPont explained, “He gave me plenty of advice: play each game as if it were any other, avoid putting excessive pressure on yourself, and refrain from overthinking. Simply enjoy the moment, have fun with your teammates on the ice, and savor every second, because these tournaments pass quickly.””
DuPont is no stranger to the letter ‘C’ on his sweater, having served as an alternate captain at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and now being named captain for this year’s tournament in Alberta.
DuPont said, “It feels unreal and is a great honor to lead these players. I aim to guide them appropriately; they are talented athletes who understand various situations. While each is a natural leader, I intend to steer the team wisely rather than dominate.”
DuPont learned that assuming the captaincy at any international event is a special responsibility, a role he inherited from a former captain who truly understands what it entails.
He recalled, “It was the night before the opening round‑robin game when we held a Zoom call with Matthew Schafer, who announced the captains. That moment felt pretty cool.”
Schaefer guided Canada to a gold medal at the 2024 tournament, alongside Gavin McKenna, in Edmonton—the same venue hosting this year’s event. Performing at Rogers Place, surrounded by family and friends, makes this tournament especially meaningful for Calgary‑born DuPont.
DuPont added, “It’s incredible; after experiencing it abroad last year, being on home soil with the crowd’s red support and family nearby—so close to Calgary—is truly special.”
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Representing Canada at Rogers Place has been a dream fulfilled, and returning to Alberta also reminded DuPont of the rink that sparked his love for hockey. Growing up in Calgary, he spent many hours at the Scotiabank Saddledome, making its final season bittersweet.
DuPont said, “I’m genuinely heartbroken that they’re tearing it down. While some dismiss it, I love that historic building—unique, affordable, and filled with great fans. Still, I’m excited about the new arena coming soon.”
In his two seasons with the Everett Silvertips of the WHL, DuPont amassed 35 goals and 133 points in 127 games and served as an alternate captain in 2025‑26, his first formal leadership position.
After the tournament, DuPont will embark on the next chapter of his career at the University of Michigan, where he aims to further develop every facet of his game.
DuPont advised, “Approach it with an open mind, absorb everything from the seniors and older players. Our team is talented, so learning from teammates and coaches will be invaluable.”
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Although early projections often place DuPont among the top‑10 picks for the 2027 NHL draft, he remains unconcerned with his eventual selection spot; his focus is on becoming the best player possible before draft day.
At present, DuPont’s sole focus is bringing gold back to Canada. After recent setbacks at events such as the World Junior Championship and the 2026 Olympics, he understands how valuable another international title would be.
DuPont said, “It would be huge. Obviously, it’s Canada’s game; anything less than a gold medal is a disappointment, and we fell short last year. The Olympics didn’t go our way, but we’re highly motivated and committed to bringing success to the entire country, beginning this year on the right note.”
