Chris Peters, a freelance hockey writer and former USA Hockey public relations guy, assessed three players with Minnesota ties who are candidates for the U.S. team which will compete in the 2012 World Junior Championships in Alberta.

Here is his evaluation:

Nick Bjugstad – Minnesota Gophers — Bjugstad has a leg up on the competition due to the fact that he's returning from the bronze-medal squad. However, looking at the roster of forwards, veteran status may not guarantee a spot this year. Bjugstad can't let his guard down one bit. He's got great size, strength and ability. It would take a lot to knock him out of a spot, but he needs to get off to a good start with this camp to create some breathing room. Drafted by Florida in the 1st Round, No. 19 overall.

Justin Holl – Minnesota Gophers — Here's a kid with a lot of upside and potential. A lot of people really like Holl as an athlete. He's another guy with decent size and good skills. Holl is going to have to put in a little extra effort, but is certainly in the mix to be part of this hockey team. He had a pretty good freshman campaign with the Gophers and will only continue to get better. He's one to watch,

Jason Zucker – Denver Pioneers — He's the reigning WCHA Rookie of the Year and is the only forward who has played in the last two World Junior Championships. Zucker caught an elbow from Martin Marincin in the prelim round last year and was never the same. When healthy, he's a ball of energy that Team USA simply could not go without. He's as easy a lock there is on this team. I was a little surprised when the Minnesota Wild (a team that got a huge steal by picking him when they did) didn't offer him a contract this offseason, but USA Hockey has to be pleased about that. If he's healthy, he's on the roster and he's probably wearing a letter on his jersey. Drafted by Minnesota in the 2nd Round, No. 59 overall.