Jakub Zboril Likely To Return to QMJHL In The Fall
Jakub Zboril was the Boston Bruins first overall pick in the 2015 Entry Draft. The young Czech defensemen was selected as a player for the future for the Bruins organization. While he’s likely not to put on the spoked ‘B’ for a couple of seasons, he’s making an impact in the organization early on in his career.
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“On the ice he makes it look pretty easy. Real smooth skater, moves the puck really well, defends really well because he’s such a good skater,’’ said development coach(and former player) Jay Pandolfo. “He’s a young kid. He still has a lot to learn. He’s come in here our first overall pick and it’s opened his eyes a little bit. We’ve talked to him. He knows what he needs to do to get better, and he’s going to do that. He’s a good kid.”
“I just think what the Bruins expect, what type of conditioning level we expect here. He’s never been around the organization before, so I think that is something that is new to him. But 18-year-old kids, they’re young, they can eat what they want, they can do what they want. But once you get to this level, you’ve got to start taking care of yourself a little better off the ice. That’s one thing he’s going to do better.”
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Zboril was the first of the Bruins 2015 draft picks to sign with the Black and Gold. On Wednesday, Zboril was signed to a two-year, entry-level deal. Zboril had a solid first development camp, but he’s going to need at least another season of spit and polish, so it’s back to the major juniors for the time being.
“Not for sure, anything right now, maybe some miracle will happen, who knows,” Zboril said. “But I think I will go to Saint John for another season.”
Due to the NHL/CHL transfer agreement, he won’t be allowed to play in the AHL next season. If the Boston Bruins have another terrible season in the injury department, Zboril could make his debut next season, but it’s highly unlikely. The Bruins have a substantial pool of talent at the AHL level to cover any potential holes the B’s have during the season.
Zboril had a good year in the QMJHL last season putting up thirty-three points (13 goals) in forty-four games for the Sea Dogs.
“It’s a really happy day for me and I’m thankful for the opportunity,” Zboril said of signing his deal. “But it’s just one [of many] steps and that’s all. A lot of hard work to be done.”