David Jiricek's Promising World Juniors Debut a Sign of Things to Come for the Blue Jackets

By Coby Maeir on August 10, 2022 at 1:45 pm
David Jiricek
Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
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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. 

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.  


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. 

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