Broncos make sizable addition to blue line
The Swift Current Broncos made a sizeable addition to their blue line last week.
The team announced the addition of 6’5’’ Czech defenseman Jakub Dvorak, who was drafted in the second round, 54th overall, by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2023 NHL Draft.
The Broncos had drafted the 2005-born defenseman 22nd overall in the 2022 CHL Import Draft.
“When we drafted Jakub we knew there was an opportunity for him to stay in pro. But he had an out in his contract that enabled him to come. So we just continued on building a relationship and staying in touch with Jakub. We had an opportunity, saw some ice time and opportunity dwindle a little bit for him in Liberac there, so we felt there was a really good chance that he would come and he’s here,” explained Broncos General Manager Chad Leslie.
“Yeah I was being in touch with some guys and also with Chad the GM, he was waiting for me a long time, but he got me. I am glad to be here,” said Dvorak.
Dvorak made his debut with three games last week, finished with one assist and a plus-six rating while playing in all situations.
“He’s smooth, he’s big, he’s got really good mobility, a lot of freedom in his hips and moves really well. He’s got a good stick. He makes good, simple plays when his head’s up. He gives us a guy that can play effortless minutes. We’re really excited,” said Leslie.
“I was always considered an offensive D, but when I came to pro in Czech it was much harder to be offensive with the older guys, so now I am trying to apply this to my game here,” added Dvorak.
Dvorak had two goals, one assist, and 20 penalty minutes in 19 games with Liberac Bili Tygri HC this season.
“It was a good opportunity for me. In Liberac it wasn’t so good. I was playing not as much as I expected and I knew if I would come here it would be much better, so yeah I decided this way,” explained Dvorak after a 7-6 win over the visiting Moose Jaw Warriors on Jan. 6.
Dvorak said the transition to the WHL was not difficult.
“Actually it was easier for me because I am coming here from a pro league. Getting down to juniors was easier for me.”
Liberac plays in the top pro league in Czechia.
“In Czech it was more strategic and more tactics and stuff. Here, young guys and the coaches want them to play the best.”
He said the smaller ice surface was the biggest change.
“It’s so much quicker. In Czech we have a really wide
rink. Here it is much smaller. There is obviously a big difference between those two leagues. I would say these young guys can be on the same level as the pro guys in Czech.”
Dvorak helped the Broncos to home wins over Spokane and Moose Jaw over the weekend.
“I love the fans. I love the crowd. Also if we’re going out to eat a lot of guys recognize us, so yeah that’s great. It’s an amazing feeling to be in this city. It’s smaller, but that’s the positive thing.”
The Los Angeles Kings prospect
hopes to help the Broncos on a long playoff run as well as improve his game on North American ice.
“I love the group. I think we have a really strong team. We can come a long way in the playoffs… I love the boys. I love the city. It’s great.”