Photo credit: Steve Dunsmoor

By Regan Bartel

Jakub Stancl named to Czechia roster

Czech it out: Rockets rookie plays for country at WJ’s

Dec 5, 2024 | 3:00 PM

Every Canadian hockey player dreams of representing their country on the international stage, and the same holds true for athletes from other nations, where wearing the national jersey is a true honor.

This week, RocketFAN caught up with Kelowna Rockets forward Jakub Stancl, who is suiting up for Czechia at the World Junior Hockey Championships for the second year in a row.

“Last year was incredible,” Stancl recalled. “We had a chance to win a bronze medal, and finishing in the top three was something I’ll always remember.”

Now 19 and a fourth-round NHL draft pick by the St. Louis Blues, the 6’3”, 198-pound forward is eager to improve on his performance this year.

“Wearing the Czech jersey is such an honor,” he said. “I think it’s a dream for every player back home. I’m really excited to have the opportunity to represent my country again.”

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Stancl knows the World Juniors will be different this time around, with the tournament taking place in Canada (Ottawa). “The crowd definitely won’t be cheering for us,” he said with a chuckle. “But it’s still going to be amazing. The arenas will be packed, and a lot of people will be watching, so it will be an exciting atmosphere.”

Back in Kelowna, Stancl is making a strong impact in his first WHL season. With 30 points (12 goals, 18 assists) in 23 games, he’s quickly become a key contributor for the Rockets, currently sitting fourth in team scoring. After spending last season playing professionally in Sweden, the adjustment to North American ice has been smooth for the Czech forward.

“It’s definitely an advantage,” Stancl explained. “The rink is smaller, the game is faster, and it’s more physical. Having experience on this surface definitely helps me adjust to the North American style of play.”

Since November 10th, Stancl has found another gear, particularly in the last ten games. With points in eight of those games, including a season-high 1+3=4 in a 9-1 win over Regina, the power forward is hitting his stride at just the right time.

“It’s been going well,” Stancl said modestly. “I started a little slower, but I’m getting more comfortable. The guys in the locker room have treated me really well, and we’ve become good friends. Things are just getting better and better.”

In recent games, Stancl has been paired with leading scorer Andrew Cristall, centering a line that also includes captain Max Graham.

“Playing with Andrew has been great,” Stancl said. “He’s an unbelievable player with great hockey sense. We have good chemistry, and I hope it continues that way.”

One of the most noticeable aspects of Stancl’s game is his increased willingness to shoot the puck. Encouraged by coaching staff to fire the puck on net more often, the message is clearly being received. He’s fourth on the team with 61 shots on goal.

“Mally [Head Coach Kris Mallette] is always on me to shoot the puck,” Stancl said with a grin. “He tells me to be physical and shoot as much as I can. Sometimes, I try to find that ‘perfect pass,’ but I know I need to shoot more, and I’m definitely getting better at it.”

Stancl also knows that using his size gives him an advantage, especially in physical situations.

“There aren’t many players in Europe who play like this compared to Canada,” he said. “I try to use my size to my advantage, being strong on the puck and in the corners. If I play physically, I can definitely have an edge over other players.”

Of his 30 points this season, only four have come on the power play, which speaks to his ability to produce at even strength and not rely on special teams opportunities.

“I’m happy with my progress, but I’m not satisfied yet,” Stancl said. “There’s still a lot of hockey to be played, and I want to keep improving, keep helping my team win, and hopefully get more points.”

“For now, my focus is on Kelowna. When I’m in Ottawa for the World Juniors, I’ll focus on representing Czechia. I just try to stay present and enjoy the moment.”