St. Louis Blues Draft Adam Jiricek 16th Overall – Hockey Writers – Blues Prospects

About Adam Jiricek

Jiricek is the younger brother of David Jirieck, a first round pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets from the 2022 Draft. Both Jiricek brothers play for Plzen HC, a team in the top league in the country. Unfortunately, Adam was limited to only 19 games and only had one assist on the season. He also played 12 games for this team last season but played more often in the U20 team. He played in 41 games, scoring 12 goals and adding 17 assists for 29 points.

Related: 2024 NHL Draft Live Tracker

Jiricek also had an impressive performance in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, one of the top tournaments for players under the age of 18. He played for Czechia in 50 matches in different age groups from the age of 16. Two knee injuries cut short his season and World Juniors appearance. He should have been a key member of the Czech team that won the bronze, but a recurring knee injury kept him out.

Excerpt from THW's profile

“Jiricek has a high level of talent and has the potential to be a solid four (or two) defender in the future. His strengths are found in his size, skating, mobility, and passing first. Like his brother David, who was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022, he is a well-rounded player who can be used in all situations from the power play to the penalty kill and everywhere in between. He is not ashamed to take the body. When he gets older and fills out his 6-foot-2 frame, he'll be a formidable presence when opponents try to get into the offensive zone against him. “

“Jiricek also has a bomb from there, but as some scouts have said, he doesn't always get to the net often enough. It's great to have a great shot, but if it doesn't reach the goaltender, it's kind of useless. Traffic photography is a skill in itself, and for it to be a legitimate weapon in the future, he has to work on that part of it.”

“Jiricek's ceiling is that of a top-four defenseman in the NHL. He'll be an all-around player who may not rebound on the power play but doesn't look out of place. His value will come on the penalty kill and five-on-five, where he'll be a helper for an offensive-minded defender — while also being able to score himself. “

How Does This Affect Blues Programs?

The Blues needed to fill the cupboard with defensive prospects, and made a first attempt at that with the selection of Jiricek. The Blues aren't really looking for a need instead of a “best available player,” but they got both with Jiricek's 16th pick.

Jiricek will have time to develop in the Czech Republic before both sides find the best time for him to come play in the United States and get used to the North American style of hockey.