Inspired by Nadal, hard-shooting prospect Jiricek develops his own style

SPORTSCENTRE Reporter

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If he's not on the ice with a hockey stick, you may find David Jiricek holding a racquet. 

"I like tennis," said the 18-year-old, who is a defenceman with Plzen in the Czech Extraliga. "I play a lot of tennis with my brother."

He also watches a lot of tennis. 

"Rafael Nadal is my favourite player," Jiricek said. "Nadal has his own style and, after surgery or after injuries, he gets back. He is the best after every injury. So, a great guy."

The latest example came earlier this month at Roland Garros where Nadal overcame a foot injury to claim yet another trophy on the clay of Paris. 

Jiricek dealt with his own injury adversity this season. He hurt his knee at the World Juniors before the event was called due to COVID and needed surgery. It was a tough moment in an important season. But Jiricek worked his way back and ended the year at the senior men's world championship where he helped Czechia win a bronze medal. 

David Jiříček #45 is back in form and I think he's even better than before despite the long break. These are just a few clips from yesterday's game against Finland. His involvement in the offensive zone is getting way more aggressive...he's a huge offensive weapon. #2022NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/v2lEXtUkHj

Jiricek, who stands 6-foot-3, 189 pounds, is among the top prospects available in the upcoming National Hockey League draft. He is the No. 4 European skater on NHL Central Scouting's final list. TSN's Craig Button has him at No. 6 on his final ranking of all prospects.

In a conversation with TSN, Jiricek made it clear that, like Nadal, he's got his own style. The following is an edited transcript of the interview. 

TSN: What is your style of play? 

Jiricek: "I have good