David Jiricek was named Team Czechia's player of the game in its 5-4 win over Slovakia yesterday at the World Juniors.
The sixth overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, Jiricek displayed why he was such a highly-touted prospect yesterday, both with his physical stature and his play. At 6 feet, 3 inches tall, you can't miss him when he's on the ice, and his height is part of what makes him such a special talent.
#CBJ prospect David Jiricek named Czechias player of the game in Czechias 5-4 win over Slovakia at the #WorldJuniors
— Coby Maeir (@CobyMaeir) August 9, 2022
But you aren't awarded player of the game for just being tall. Jiricek played 28 shifts and compiled 21:37 TOI while adding an assist and six total shots including two breakaway chances. He also ran point on Czechia's top power-play unit and played on its top penalty-killing group.
#CBJ David Jiek running point on Czechias top PP unit #WorldJuniors
— Coby Maeir (@CobyMaeir) August 9, 2022
His performance in his first game since being drafted should add even more excitement to what has been one of the most exciting summers in the history of the Blue Jackets franchise. Whether he'll be on the Jackets' roster at the start of the season is up to Jarmo Kekalainen, but even if he's not, his performance at the World Juniors is encouraging to say the least. Notably, he is an alternate captain, so he is a talented player and also possesses leadership qualities.
Hvzdou zpasu #CZEvSVK byl na esk stran vyhlen obrnce David Jiek #U20CZE #narodnitym #jakolev #WorldJuniors
— Bronzov nrok (@narodnitym) August 9, 2022
Martin Voltr pic.twitter.com/eaccbpYP0Y
