Hall Of Famer Has High Praise For Canadiens Juraj Slafkovsky

Marian Hossa, one of the best Slovakian hockey players of all time, believes that Montreal Canadiens prospect Juraj Slafkovsky is destined to make an immediate impact in the NHL as soon as this fall.

In an interview with Sport.sk reporter Tomas Prokop, Hossa spoke about his respect and admiration for Slafkovsky’s game; once again congratulating him on having one of the most memorable seasons for a Slovak player in recent memory. In his estimation, he believes that Slafkovsky’s ability to adapt and learn on the go will help him to crack the roster and stick for the season with the Montreal Canadiens.

“First overall picks usually play in the NHL right away. I would be surprised if this was not the case with Juraj,” said Hossa regarding where he expects Slafkovsky to play next season. “I think they will be patient with him, but it would be concerning if he didn’t crack the roster right away. In my opinion, he is ready to start the season with the best players in the world. Throughout the season, he will learn and improve. I don’t see a problem in his game. In my opinion, he will catch on immediately.”

When asked to discuss Slafkovsky’s playing style, Hossa immediately brought up the recent comparisons to Jaromir Jagr, as Slafkovsky’s big frame and puck protection game are very reminiscent of the Czech winger played in the NHL. Hossa went one step further however in comparing Slafkovsky’s skating ability to that of former Montreal Canadiens forward Richard Zednik.

“There have been comparisons to Jaromír Jágr, and we’ve even talked about it with our friends,” said Hossa on who Slafkovsky’s style reminds him of. “His skating reminds me of Richard Zedník, who also skated more on the ice. I like how he can cover the puck with his body. It will only get better with age.”

All eyes will be on Slafkovsky as he heads to his first NHL training camp this fall, but he will seemingly have the full support of his home country as he embarks on his next journey. Fresh off a haul of history-making award wins this past week in Slovakia, Juraj Slafkovsky is now en route to Montreal to begin preparation for camp with the goal of cracking the roster on Day 1.