Buffalo Sabres: Grading Jiri Kulich’s epic IIHF tournament
Buffalo Sabres prospect Jiri Kulich once again made a name for himself with an epic showing at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship.
The Buffalo Sabres selected forward Jiri Kulich with the 28th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, and he has since been lights out regardless if he was playing in Rochester, or for Czechia. And if you had the privilege to watch Kulich represent his home country over the past two weeks, odds are, you will be happy with what you saw.
Kulich was so good, he tied for the number two spot in goals, behind only the legendary Connor Bedard, who had nine. He also led Czechia in points, and along with teammates Tomas Suchanek and David Jiricek, he also earned a spot on the tournament’s All-Star Team.
Buffalo Sabres prospect Jiri Kulich excelled in 2023 IIHF World Juniors
With nine points, seven goals, and two assists, Kulich more than proved his worth. And he built on a solid 2022 campaign in the same tournament, showing Sabres fans everywhere that he is consistent on the national stage.
Kulich also helped keep Czechia in the game during the final against Canada. The contest went into overtime before the Canadians scored in the extra period to win the tournament 3-2.
Overall, it was a successful run for Kulich, who will return to the Rochester Americans to continue his development. In 24 games this season for the Amerks, Kulich has 16 points, six goals, and 10 assists. And following his epic showing at the World Juniors, you can expect further growth in Rochester, and a likely spot on the Buffalo Sabres lower lines next season.
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As for the World Juniors, I have to give Kulich an easy A here. Few performed better than Kulich, and he played a pivotal role in Czechia’s remarkable run to the finals. He will continue to enjoy top-tier performances on the international stage, and his elevated game will come to Rochester with more experience.
(Statistics provided by IIHF.com)
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