>Connor Knapp and Chris Wideman have survived the first round of cuts at the USA Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid, New York. The RedHawk sophomores are just two of the remaining 29 players selected by USA and UNO head coach Dean Blais to remain in camp. The original roster of 42 players was trimmed on Sunday evening.

“We kept five defensive pairs and five forward lines, and all of them will have a chance to show what they can do against Russia,” Blais said. “Even after this camp ends, we will continue to evaluate all of these players…”

Team USA will take on Russia four times this week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) at the Olympic Center, in Lake Placid. Invitees are hoping to earn a spot on the U.S. National Junior Team that will take part in the 2010 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, Dec. 26, 2008-Jan. 5, 2009, in Saskatoon and Regina, Saskatchewan.

To view the current US roster, click here.

(Photo Credits: Rachel Lewis)