Peterborough Petes forward Adam Novotny is heading to Minnesota to represent his home country of Czechia at the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championship.
Playing in his first season with the Petes, the 18-year-old phenom is having a spectacular start to his OHL career, leading the Petes in goals (19) and points (35) in 29 games, and is expected to be a high first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
Novotny, who helped Czechia win bronze last year, will be looking to build on that success in what is always one of the sport’s premier tournaments for under-20 players.
Wearing his country’s jersey is something he says he takes great pride in, adding that it’s a special feeling each and every time.
He says he’s always ready to play, no matter what team he’s suiting up for, but says he feels a bit of extra pride when he’s representing his home country.
Novotny says his past experience will give him some extra confidence heading into this year’s tournament.
Looking ahead, Novotny looks forward to bringing the international experience back to his play with the Petes.
Novotny was also recently named to Team East for the upcoming Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game, alongside Petes teammates Adam Levac and Leon Kolarik, taking place January 14 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.
Czechia will play their first game of the tournament on Boxing Day when they take on Canada at 7:30pm.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
