Czechia enters the 2026 World Junior Championship with growing confidence and genuine expectations. Over the last three tournaments, the national junior program has transformed from a dark horse into a reliable contender for medals in international hockey. The silver finish in 2023 rekindled belief, and the two consecutive bronze medals showed it was not just a one-time achievement. This current roster showcases years of building momentum. The group heading to Minnesota is younger than last season, yet their identity is clear. Czechia has become fast, battle-tested, and noticeably more confident on the ice.
Recent World Junior history has given Czech hockey some unforgettable moments. Two years ago, the team won bronze with a dramatic comeback against Finland in the medal game. That night demonstrated the maturity and emotional strength of a young group. Last season brought another milestone when Czechia eliminated Canada in the quarterfinals, showcasing structure, poise, and disciplined execution against a tournament favorite. These successes have shifted the national program from a respected competitor to a team that opponents must truly prepare for. This tournament comes with a new goal: to prove that the medal successes were not mere coincidence and to pursue the biggest prize, which has eluded the nation since the early 2000s.
On paper, Czechia has clear strengths. The program benefits from young players stepping into significant roles in strong professional settings. Several forwards rank among the most productive scorers in their North American leagues, while the defense features a blend of modern puck movement and traditional size. Concerns lie in goal, where previous years offered stability and experience, but this edition starts with open competition. Still, Czechia believes it has enough talent to navigate the early rounds while solidifying its goaltending situation.
Expect fast transition play, aggressive forechecking, and a defensive group eager to control the game instead of just defending. Czechia has reached a point where medals are not just dreams but attainable goals and matching the historic run of four consecutive podium finishes is genuinely within reach.
Key Players to Watch
Photo: Mathias Bergeld / BILDBYRÅN
Adam Novotny – Wing (2026 Draft)
Novotny is one of the brightest forward prospects Czechia has produced in years. His background is already impressive. He scored in the Czech top league at just fifteen and played two full seasons against men before moving to the OHL. His adjustment to Canada has gone smoothly. He plays with strong reading ability, excellent puck control in traffic, and an attacking mindset that pressures defenders. Novotny has a powerful shot and has made noticeable progress as a playmaker this season, especially with quick passing combinations in the offensive zone. For Czechia, he is expected to take on top-line responsibilities and be a key player on the power play. His size, poise, and awareness make him a strong candidate to be one of the tournament's standout forwards.
Adam Benak – Center (Minnesota Wild)
Benak enters this tournament after an impressive scoring streak in the OHL, proving that his game holds up against elite Canadian junior competition. His offensive skills are clear. He drives to the middle of the ice, evades checks with smooth edge control, and has the vision to break down defenses. He can score from distance with a quick shot that surprises goalies. What elevates Benak beyond pure skill is his pace. He hunts pucks, wins battles, and brings possession through controlled zone entries. Czechia will rely on him to spark the offense and make key plays on special teams. His confidence is high, and this platform could elevate his recognition internationally.
Photo: Mathias Bergeld / BILDBYRÅN
Tomas Galvas – Defense (2026 Draft, third year of eligibility)
Galvas arrives with experience beyond his years. He logs significant minutes in the Czech top league, often matched against strong opponents and trusted in all situations. His strength is skating. He effectively reads rush threats, closes gaps quickly, and turns defensive stops into breakouts. Galvas handles the puck well under pressure and makes smart, steady decisions. His offensive stats may not stand out, but his impact is substantial because he stabilizes play. In short tournaments, where single mistakes can shape outcomes, Galvas provides a calming presence. Expect him to play top pair shifts and support both sides of special teams.
Vaclav Nestrasil - Wing (Chicago Blackhawks)
Nestrasil has taken one of the most interesting development paths in Czech hockey. From doubts about his hockey future to a strong USHL breakout and a productive start in the NCAA, his rise has been consistent. He has a tall build, long reach, and an unyielding work ethic that suits modern international play. Offensively, he excels around the goal, screening goalies, deflecting shots, and fighting for rebounds. He has soft hands in tight spaces, and his passing is underrated. When off the puck, he is disciplined and strong on defense. Czechia sees him as an important winger who makes contributions on both ends and sets a physical tone for top lines.
Radim Mrtka – Defense (Buffalo Sabres)
Mrtka is a complete right-shot defenseman who combines reach, mobility, and defensive insight. His ability to shut down rush attempts is notable. He angles attackers toward the boards, disrupts plays early, and moves the puck confidently. Czechia views him as a key player for matchups against top forwards. He will be relied upon in late-game situations, on penalty kills, and during high-pressure moments. His presence should help Czechia manage defensive play with stability and order.
Other Draft Eligible Players to Watch
Jakub Vanecek - Defense (2026 Draft)
Vanecek is the youngest player on the roster and one of the most intriguing long-term prospects. His puck movement and confidence to take possession deep into the offensive zone demonstrate natural vision. His recent experience in the WHL has polished his defensive play and added physical responsibility. Scouts see him as an exciting two-way player in development.
Vladimir Dravecky - Defense (2026 Draft)
Dravecky arrives at this tournament as a mobile right-shot defender with strong potential. His year in the OHL has improved his physical play and sharpened his decision-making under forechecking pressure. He plays confidently when retrieving the puck, keeps his feet moving, and can exit the defensive zone through skating or passing. While his defensive reads are still maturing, his abilities are strong enough to earn trust at this level. With more consistency, he could become one of the breakout stories in the Czech draft class.