Photo Credit – Brandon Taylor / ProAm Images
Myšák is somewhat of a wildcard in regards to the NHL draft. It is easy to see him going top 15, but it would not be a major surprise to see him fall to the bottom of the first round.
He started the year in his hometown, Litvinov, despite having the option to cross the pond and play in the OHL from the start of the season. This was mainly due to his coach, triple gold club member Jiří Šlégr, promising him a big role in the Czech Extraliga. The role would have been merited as well. In 2018-19, as a 16-year-old, he saved HC Litvinov from relegation almost single handedly, posting 5 goals and 9 points in 6 “play-out” games. Despite this, he saw his opportunities limited from the very start of the year.
His season took a turn at the World Juniors. The Czech forwards play at the highest level of junior hockey in Ostrava massively boosted his stock. Not only did he flash his great hands and speed, but he played an intelligent two-way game, and showed that his diligence and commitment to defense should not be a concern going forward. Some in both scouting circles and the Czech media had questioned his play in his own zone, as well as his commitment to playing defense, but he made them eat their words at the highest level, alongside in the OHL. In terms 2020 draft wingers, Myšák is amongst the best in his own zone.
After the World Juniors he made the move to Hamilton and the OHL, and impressed on a poor team with 15 goals and 25 points in 22 games. These performances under the watchful eyes of North American scouts elevated his stock even more.
Player Profile
D.O.B – June 24, 2002
Nationality – Czech Republic
Draft Eligibility – 2020
Height –6’0
Weight –181 lbs
Position – Left Wing/Center
Handedness – Left
Myšák’s Style Of Play
Some scouts have criticised his skating, but there is no doubting his speed, and alongside his hockey IQ his skating is amongst his best attributes. The concerns though center more around the “process” of his skating than results though. His stride is not close to technically perfect, and insomuch at times it looks like he could generate more power than he currently does. Considering his speed and ability to carve through the neutral zone, as well as beat defensemen wide, if he cleans up his stride he would be hard to contain for any NHL defenseman in a few years.
Myšák is a great goalscorer. Both from wing and when he has played down the middle. His skill and speed allow him to get the advantage through the neutral zone, his hard forechecking style ensure he is rarely far from the puck, and his hockey-IQ allows him to get in great positions to score. Despite this he could still improve his release, despite it being more than adequate going forward.
The Czech forward is also a good, high-octane penalty-killer. He is by no means a physical player, and is somewhat undersized at 5’10, but that does not prevent him winning battles due to his physical attributes and IQ. Going forward Myšák arguably fits best at LW, but it would not be a great surprise if some NHL teams saw him as a potential 2C down the line. If Myšák falls past 20th overall in the upcoming draft whoever takes him will be getting a top ten type talent who in most drafts would be long gone.
Comparison
Dylan Larkin, Center, Detroit Red Wings
Myšák bases his game on the Red Wings pivot, and it is easy to see that when you watch him play. While it is unlikely that the young Czech forward can reach the level that Larkin is at, both rely on great speed and skill, and can handle the puck beautifully in full stride. Furthermore, both are high-end scorers despite neither having amazing releases. Like Larkin, Myšák is a good forechecker who is a real PK threat. Myšák is not as physical as Larkin, and not quite the same level play-maker, but is just as exciting to watch.
Stats from EliteProspects
Prospect report written by Alexander Appleyard. If you would like to follow Alexander on Twitter, his handle is @Avappleyard.
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