It will not be HC Fribourg-Gottéron's first rodeo at the Spengler Cup: they had already played in the traditional Christmas tournament in 1992 and 2012. They have, however, yet to win the tournament.
The Dragons will replace HC Ambrì-Piotta. The Biancoblù announced early that they would not return for another rendition of the tournament. As of now, Team Canada, HC Davos and HC Fribourg-Gottéron are the confirmed participants for this year's tournament.
