Czech National Coach Speaks Against Jiricek Trade – Wilderness Walk

Not everyone loves the Minnesota Wild acquiring David Jiricek in the fan base, and it appears even out of our little State of Hockey circle, some people are perplexed.

Per a Czech sports reporter, the head coach of the Czechia national team and long-time coach in the top domestic division, Radim Rulik, spoke vehemently against the trade. Mainly because the Wild already have a good, right-handed defenseman in the system, according to him.

Quote

“I absolutely do not understand what they did in Minnesota. Crazy! I hope that David Jiříček will play, but what did they do to David Špaček?! I am convinced that they have not seen a single World Cup match, they have no idea what a gem they have there. I do not understand!”

We love to see biases pop up so strongly, don’t we?

Jiricek is a prospect that could become the Wild’s most dynamic defenseman if he reaches his potential — yes, over Brock Faber, even. And while we love David Spacek around here, the former fifth-round pick hasn’t really been banging on the door to make his NHL debut from AHL Iowa. The 21-year-old blueliner has nine points in 18 games — a significant improvement from his 12 points in 61 games last season — but his presence should not really prevent the Wild from making a strong move like they have.

Just a little funny.

That’s Wild

• Speaking of the Jiricek trade — how does it affect the Wild’s cap in both the short and long-term? [Hockey Wilderness]
• In practice, John Hynes is looking at having both Zach Bogosian and Jiricek on their off-side, on the left. [THN]

Off the trail…

• Rebuild? Retool? A look at how the Pittsburgh Penguins should approach this disaster 2024-25 season. [ESPN]
• The failing Chicago Blackhawks have fired head coach Luke Richardson. Sure. [NHL.com]
• Five coaching candidates that could replace Richardson in Chicago, when they want to sign a full-time guy. [THN]

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