NHL Debut: Adam Jiricek (Oct. 2, 2026)

Former Brantford Bulldogs defenceman Adam Jiricek is set to make his NHL debut tonight with the St. Louis Blues.

Selected 16th overall by the Blues in the 2024 NHL Draft, Jiricek was recalled from the Springfield Thunderbirds of the American Hockey League (AHL) on Sept. 27.

Coming off a career-best season in Brantford that saw the Bulldogs capture the Hamilton Spectator Trophy as OHL regular-season champions, Jiricek more than tripled his offensive production from the previous season. The Plzen, CZE., native finished with 59 points (19-40–59) before adding another 22 points in 15 playoff games. His 59 regular-season points ranked fourth among OHL defencemen, while his 19 goals were tied for third.

Following the conclusion of his OHL season, Jiricek joined Springfield for the Calder Cup Playoffs, marking his first professional action. He appeared in six postseason games with the Thunderbirds.

Internationally, Jiricek has represented Czechia at back-to-back IIHF World Junior Championships.