Hejda could return to the National Team
Czech defenseman Jan Hejda retired from the National Team, but for the homeland 2015 IIHF Worlds he could change his mind.Jan Hejda repeatedly announced his retirement from the Czech National Team. Everything started when Hejda openly talked about Czech NT Coach Alois Hadamczik. “I will not play under him (Hadamczik). He has no system and he always blame others;“ told Hejda for iDnes.cz.
When Hadamczik left the Czech Team, Hejda hasn’t changed his mind. Only today he admitted for iDnes.cz that he possibly could change his mind. “I am in touch with Vladimir Ruzicka and we already talked about the Worlds. Even when I already said I am done with the National Team, Ruza (nickname of Ruzicka) is trying to convince me to change my mind. We’ll see how the season and medical tests will end here in Colorado.“
Prague born defenseman isn’t having a terrific year so far, nevertheless he will be a valuable addition for the Czech Team. Coach Ruzicka eventually lost Marek Zidlicky, who was traded from New Jersey to Detroit; Zbynek Michalek, from Arizona to St. Louis and Roman Polak, who undertook a hernia surgery.
Jan Hejda with the 2003 Czech League Champions Trophy (source: HC Slavia Praha)
Hejda’s biggest assets are his experience and good defensive abilities. Ruzicka and Hejda won the 2003 Czech League Title with Slavia Praha. “Playing the Worlds in Prague, that’s tempting. And also, it’s hard to say no to Vladimir Ruzicka.”
The Avalanche are now 6 points behind the Wild Card spot with 11 games remaining. “We still believe. It’s true we haven’t caught the beginning of the season and now it’s hard to catch up,” Hejda said.
36-years old NHL veteran will likely sign an extension with the Avs. “Let’s say, I guess on 80% it will work out. We’ve have shared our contract thoughts and we’ll see if we can reach an agreement.”
Source: hokej.iDnes.cz
Pavol Hercko, Slovakia, pavol@eurolanche.com
23/03/2015 - 20:00
