The Chicago Blackhawks' 2014 first-round pick was one of 22 players named to Team USA's final roster for the 2016 World Junior Championships, USA Hockey announced Wednesday. There are 13 forwards, seven defenseman and two goaltenders looking to improve the US' fifth-place finish from the last tournament.
Schmaltz has tallied three goals and 23 assists in 20 games this season for North Dakota. The 19-year-old sophomore led the country in November with primary assists (seven), even-strength assists (10) and game-winning assists (four). He was named the NCHC Player of the Month for November.
Defenseman Zach Werenski (Michigan/Columbus Blue Jackets) will captain the team, with defenseman Louie Belpedio (Skokie, Ill.