Photo Credit: Photo.khl.ru
Last time we examined Ivan Miroshnichenko and how he could fit into the Flyers plans. In this one we dive into one of if not the top defensemen in the draft. That top defensemen is non other than the Czech Republic’s David Jiříček. Between the top two defensemen in Jiříček and Simon Nemec out of Slovakia, Jiříček is the quicker skater right now. Hence that could mean even if Nemec over time rounds out his skating maybe he has the more peak potential. However, Jiříček is likely in my own view the only immediate impact defensemen year one in this draft right out of the gate.
Nemec compared to Jiříček could take a wee bit more time to adjust to North American play because of his growing skating ability. Where Jiříček already being a nice skater and getting better sets him up for almost immediate success even on smaller ice here in North America. That’s also why I would not be one to frown if Seattle takes Nemec as both are sharp, but Jiříček is the better skater out of the gate. Granted, “A-OK” speed Nemec projects better than most, but why not have the even better skater in Jiříček who also brings dynamite offensive and overall game potential.
Even coming off the knee injury, Jiříček rightfully so is still a hot commodity. He has a sharp shot with growing accuracy. He also as mentioned already is a fluent skater. Plus he played well in his final season in the Czech league, as well. So in other words, he is still riding high into the draft. Jiříček is definitely going to get drafted within the top seven. The question is if he falls to 5, should the Flyers take him? The real answer is it depends who else is left. Defense is wise, and Jiříček would be my top choice in this draft at least definitely anyways. All in all, Jiříček is exactly something the Flyers could use. A defensemen with size and speed that is only going to get bigger and better over time being he is only 18-years-old right now. Now all we have to do is wait as the decision is only in the Flyers hands.
He’d help but not as much as firing fletch