A foursome of Chicago Blackhawks prospects is leading Team USA into the medal round of the IIHF World Junior Championship. They are showing the world that the future is very bright in the Windy City. Meanwhile, the Rockford IceHogs are dealing with a depleted roster as the NHL roster is ravaged with injuries.

Mario Tirabassi is keeping tabs on the amateur ranks in North America. He will make a deep dive into the NCAA ranks and the Canadian junior leagues. Greg Boysen is focused on the Rockford IceHogs in the American Hockey League (AHL) and all the players playing professionally across Europe.

Mario: Gajan's valiant efforts fall short while Team USA reaches semifinals

Last year, ...