Alongside Petr Čech, two-time Stanley Cup Champion Patrik Eliáš helped draw up the 2024/25 Regular Season match-ups at yesterday's Champions Hockey League Draw held in Prague, Czechia. Following the Draw, we caught up with the renowned ex-New Jersey Devils player for a short interview.
"The CHL is a way for players to show themselves to Europe."Patrik Eliáš
Patrik Eliáš's career ended just as the CHL was getting started. How has he seen the progress the competition has made over ten seasons? "The competition is growing and it's wonderful to see. I watch the games and enjoy the good matches," he said.
The forward amassed a whopping 1240 games for the Devils having spent his entire NHL career with the organisation. New Jersey retired his #26 at the end of his career. What important lessons would he pass on to young players?
"All young players think they're talented but I think it's important to set your goals right, to be realistic," he said. The former Czech national team player also went on to talk about how international games on club level are hugely important.
"The qualify of European hockey is rising across the board, the competitiveness is closer and it's fun for the fans!"