Ondrej Palat to Realize Dream of Playing NHL Game in Czechia

Ondrej Palat, a veteran forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, is set to achieve a lifelong dream this week when he and the New Jersey Devils open the NHL regular season with two games against the Buffalo Sabres in Prague, Czechia.

“I have been fortunate enough to realize many of my dreams in hockey,” Palat expressed. “But to play an NHL hockey game in my beloved Czechia is something I’ve never imagined.” His excitement reflects the significance of this milestone not only for him but also for hockey fans in the Czech Republic.

The NHL Global Series games, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, will mark the ninth time Prague has hosted regular-season NHL games, second only to Stockholm, Sweden. This international exposure emphasizes the NHL’s commitment to expanding its reach beyond North America.

Palat, who previously played in Sweden with the Tampa Bay Lightning, noted the importance of overseas games for team bonding. “Traveling together can create a stronger team dynamic,” he said, reminiscing about his experiences in Stockholm during the Lightning’s successful 2020 and 2021 seasons. As the NHL prepares to kick off another exciting season, fans are eager to witness Palat and the Devils take the ice in a historic setting that holds special meaning for the Czech player.