5 potential replacements for Callahan at World Cup of Hockey

With news of Ryan Callahan's hip surgery and the subsequent five-month recovery time, Team USA is now without a forward.

For many American players, the injury news means they now have a second chance at joining some of the game's elite, as well as the shot at the honor of donning the red, white, and blue.

Here are five players who could replace Callahan at the World Cup of Hockey:

Kyle Okposo

Kyle Okposo posted the most points this season of all eligible U.S. forwards not named to the team's initial roster.

The New York Islanders right winger collected 22 goals and hit the second-highest point total of his career, picking up 64 points during the 2015-16 campaign. He added seven power-play goals, four game-winning goals, and with 51 penalty minutes he proved he is not afraid to play physical - just like Callahan.

He has represented Team USA six times, three times at the World Championship, twice at the World Juniors, and once at the Under-17s and would be an adequate replacement.

Tyler Johnson

Another potential option could be Callahan's own teammate Tyler Johnson.

While Johnson regressed after a breakout 29-goal, 72-point season last year - with just 14 goals and 38 points in the regular season - he rallied in the postseason with seven goals and 17 points in 17 games.

Johnson provides a stronger shot and more speed than Callahan, and with 42 points in 47 career playoff games, he seemingly raises his game when it matters most.

Bobby Ryan

After being among Team USA's final cuts at the 2014 Winter Olympics, Bobby Ryan would be willing to get some international redemption.

The Ottawa Senators star had his highest point total since the 2011-12 season with 56 points in 2015-16. And while his point-production has fallen since his 71-point output in 2010-11, he remains an offensive threat with a wicked shot.

Ryan could also be very valuable in the shootout after pacing the league with six goals this season. He will also be happy to know Brian Burke isn't making the final decision on the roster this time around.

Kyle Palmieri

Kyle Palmieri surprised everyone - even himself - this season.

Entering the year with a previous career-high of 31 points, the New Jersey Devils forward nearly matched that in goals alone in 2015-16, tallying 30 to go along with 27 assists in all 82 games of work.

Palmieri proved to be a stud with the extra man, netting 11 power-play goals and 23 power-play points. Factor in his strong shot and willingness to score garbage goals, he has versatility and can do whatever his coaches ask of him.

Phil Kessel

Phil Kessel's incredible playoff run just might earn him a chance to play for his country once again.

After mustering his least productive season since 2010 - 26 goals and 59 points - Kessel did what he does best in the playoffs, scoring 10 goals and 22 points in 24 games to lead the Cup-winning Pittsburgh Penguins.

What also makes Kessel a valuable add - besides his elite shot and speed - is his proven international track record. While Team USA fell in the bronze medal game at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Kessel shared the tournament lead with five goals and eight points in six games en route to being named the tournament's best forward.

Factor in that Kessel shared great chemistry with former Toronto linemate James van Riemsdyk - who collected seven points - while playing together on a line at the 2014 Olympics, and Dean Lombardi and company could create a skillful reunion of sorts.