Domestic Talent Leads Initial Czech World Championship squad

As the Czech Republic prepares to defend its gold medal at the upcoming World Championship in Sweden and Denmark, coach Rulík has announced the initial roster, primarily composed of players from European leagues. Sparta Praha is well-represented, with Michal Kempný, Jakub Krejčík, Pavel Kousal, Filip Moška, and Michael Špaček all earning spots on the national team. Kevin klima from Hradec Králové and Davos forwards Filip Zadina and Matěj Stránský have also been included. Michal Kovařčík makes a return after recovering from health issues.

Tough Cuts Made After Austria Game

Following a hard-fought overtime victory (4-3) against Austria in Linz, Rulík informed several players that they would not be advancing to the next stage of readiness. Among those released were goalkeeper Dominik Frodl, defenders dominik Mašín and David Moravec, and forwards Filip Přikryl, Adam Kubík, Vít Jiskra, Matyáš Filip, Jaromír pytlík, Ondřej Rohlík, and Vojtěch Hradec. The official roster for the Ostrava-Poruba camp was subsequently released in a press statement by the czech Ice Hockey Association.

Ostrava Camp Focuses on Final Preparations

The national team will convene in Ostrava for a four-day camp, culminating in two preparatory matches against Slovakia on April 24th and 25th. Rulík expects to have a squad of three goalies, ten defensemen, and fifteen forwards at his disposal during this crucial phase. The coaching staff will be evaluating player performance and chemistry as they fine-tune their strategies for the championship tournament.

NHL Reinforcements Expected to join After Euro Hockey Tour

While the initial roster is primarily European-based, the Czech team anticipates reinforcements from the NHL following the euro Hockey Tour stop in Brno. This event will serve as a final evaluation opportunity before the championship. Rulík stated that he expects the overseas players to join the team around April 28th, as they begin preparations for the Czech Games.

So far, we are completing only the players from Europe, and as far as the overseas are concerned, I think it will start Brno. If we do everything and meet, we could have those players from Monday (April 28) when we start preparing for Czech games.

Rulík, Czech National Team Coach

Vladař Eager to Represent Czech Republic

One NHL player already confirmed to be joining the team is goaltender Vladař. Despite his current contract with the Calgary Flames nearing its end, Vladař expressed his eagerness to represent his country at the World Championship. he posted a .898 save percentage and 2.80 goals against average in 30 games this season. While Calgary narrowly missed the playoffs, Vladař’s focus has shifted to international duty.

I should go to the World championship now and I am terribly proud of it to represent my country.

Vladař, Czech National Team Goaltender

When asked about the risk of injury affecting future contract negotiations, Vladař dismissed the concern, stating that injuries can happen anywhere.

Hronek and Vejmelka Expected to Join, Pastrňák Still in Negotiations

Defenseman Filip Hronek (Vancouver Canucks) and goaltender Karel Vejmelka (Utah) are also expected to join the Czech team. However, General Manager Jiří Šlégr emphasized that official announcements will be made only after medical examinations are completed.Negotiations with star forward David Pastrňák are ongoing, with Šlégr communicating with him daily to reach an agreement.

There are some names in the media, but as long as it is definitive, we do not like to talk about it.

Jiří Šlégr, General Manager of the Czech National Team

Kulich Unavailable Due to AHL Commitment

Forward Jiří Kulich will not be available for the World Championship as he is required to report to the Rochester americans, the AHL affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres, after the end of their season. Šlégr expressed disappointment,believing Kulich would have been a valuable asset to the national team.