David Krejci Will Breakout for the Czech Republic

Dec 28, 2013; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Boston Bruins center David Krejci (46) during warmup prior to game against Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

David Krejci is primed to excel for the Czech Republic at the Sochi Olympics. When he played for his country in the 2010 Winter Olympics, Krejci was a different player. He hadn’t established himself as one of the premier centers in the NHL, even though he had displayed his skillfulness in the 2008-2009 season with over 70 points and 50 assists in 82 games.

Krejci Has Matured

Right now, Krejci’s numbers haven’t necessarily improved, but his confidence and intelligence on the ice have skyrocketed. You can rely on Krejci to make plays with any line pairing, and his patience with the puck allows the Boston Bruins to settle down in their opponent’s end nicely. Krejci’s expertise was integral to the Bruins’s success during their recent Stanley Cup runs. This season, Krejci is surely the Bruins’ most valuable player. He leads the Bruins in overall assists (37) and points (50).

Will Krejci Play Better in Sochi?

Krejci looks forward to the challenge of skating on a larger rink in Sochi. The Olympic rinks are roughly 15 feet wider than North American rinks. He knows that he will have to be mindful of his stamina.

In the end, however, the larger rink may lend to Krejci’s strengths. He often depends on positioning to produce scoring chances, so when he has more ice available to him, he can be more creative with his playmaking habits. Krejci can then keep the opposition on their toes.

With experienced superstars like 42-year-old Jaromir Jagr and 37-year-old Patrik Elias, Krejci will have accommodating teammates. Look for the Bruins’ forward to make some noise in Sochi.