Vojtech Hradec

January 2025- Selected by Utah in the 2024 draft 167th overall, Hradec seemed to be one of those late round flyer picks that might hit but a lot of time do not. After his performance at the 2025 WJC, Hradec really opened some eyes with his offensive performance, looking like a late round flyer that could pan out. Most of the information on him going into the draft, Hradec was known as strong defensively and a good net front presence with his large frame (6-4). He lacked offensive instincts though. While his point totals were modest playing for BK Mlada Boleslav, he saw limited minutes. In the junior level, where Hradec saw more playing time, has been consistently over a point per game. So far this year, he has two goals and seven points in 23 games but four points in as many games in the U20 level. A little bit of a surprise selection to Czechia for the 2025 WJC, he spent a good amount of time as one of the tournament’s top scorers. Hradec finished 11th with four goals and eight points. While the bulk of those points came against a weak Kazakhstan team, everyone in Group B played Kazakhstan and did not rack up that many points. He was clearly one of Czechia’s best players en route to a bronze medal. The big center showed his strong mobility and ability to not only shoot the puck but drive the net and create opportunities for his linemates. While Hradec looks to be more of a bottom-six forward, his play at the 2025 WJC suggests there could be more there. Keith Duggan