“Slovakian U18 Hockey Star Juraj Pekarčík Impresses at World Cup Ahead of NHL Draft”

The productive JURAJ PEKARČÍK complemented Dvorský and impressed each of the experts

He could also be a bronze hero. However, in the extension of the duel for 3rd place, he did not convert the raid on the Canadian goalkeeper Gabriel D’Aigle and later he just watched Mack Celebrini’s winning goal. However, one unconverted chance does not diminish Juraj Pekarčík’s excellent tournament.

“It’s still disappointing. We are sad that we didn’t get the bronze, we all wanted it very much. It didn’t work out, but every single one of the guys left everything on the ice. I am proud that we were able to win at least fourth place, moreover, after twenty years,” said Pekarčík in an interview for our daily.

The tall striker started in the second formation, but before the quarter-finals, the coaches moved him to the wing of the first attack to Dalibor Dvorský and Adam Cedz. That’s when the elite formation started to work best. Pekarčík collected a total of 10 points (3+7) in seven duels and became the second most productive Slovak.

“I was very happy with myself. The tournament went well for me, it was also good in terms of points. Big thanks to the guys I played with. To each one,” said Pekarčík. “I played with Adam Cedz before, it was the first time with Dalibor. However, it was an excellent match, after all, they are excellent players. We understood each other from the beginning. My job was primarily to win the puck and move it so that the guys benefited from my work. I think I also helped the team with points.”

ALL THE EXPERTS PRAISE HIM

Juraj Pekarčík has been known to people experienced in Slovak youth hockey for a long time, but he became known to the general public only at the championship. He can expect to skyrocket in the pre-draft rankings. NHL Central Scouting records him in 41st place among skaters working in Europe, independent agencies mentioned him only in McKeen’s Hockey, just behind the first hundred. That will definitely change.

Pekarčík was ranked by all overseas experts devoted to the championship among the players who improved the most in the 18s before the draft. “He looked great. A position in the middle rounds could be from a relatively uncertain draft pick,” wrote Tony Ferrari of The Hockey News.

“It was a turbulent season for Pekarčík, but he played great in Switzerland. He has a lot to do with Slovakia’s success,” spomenul Steven Ellis z The Daily Faceoff. “One of the main surprises of the tournament. He looks like he has a future as a skilled power forward in overseas hockey.” added Brock Otten of McKeen’s Hockey. Other experts did not forget him either.

THE SPACE IN THE REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE HELPED

The 17-year-old attacker perceives increased attention around his person and a lot of praise. “A little yes, of course, I’m very happy,” Pekarčík grinned. “However, I would be more pleased if I had a bronze medal around my neck.”

The nearest draft to the NHL can be gratifying for him. A tall forward with good movement, direct style and clever hands, some pro league club must be interested. “I already had conversations with about eighteen clubs. We’ll see what happens next,” admitted interest from the NHL.

It didn’t help Pekarčík that he didn’t get a bigger opportunity in the extra league during the season. His name shines with 30 starts for Nitra, but he actually started in twenty duels with an average time on ice of 7:41 min. However, he fully showed his qualities at the championship. “The national team always helped me a lot, I got a lot of space. I always looked forward to coming here. I am grateful that we managed this tournament,” said Pekarčík.

The 17-year-old forward is not opposed to staying under Zobor, but his new NHL team will probably have a say in his future if he really manages to pass the draft. “I would like to get a bigger opportunity in Nitra, but we will see how everything develops. I’ll let myself be surprised by what my future will be,” concluded Juraj Pekarčík.