PIT, NSH, CGY amongst at least half dozen teams interested in UFA Daniel Pribyl, a 23-yr-old, 6-3 skilled F who plays for Sparta Praha.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) March 28, 2016
Drafted by the Montreal Candiens in the 6th round, 168 overall, Daniel Pribyl had a great season in the top Czech league and put up 45 points in 45 games, which is good for first on his team and second in the league. With the Habs showing little interest in the young forward over the past few seasons, Pribyl has decided to exercise his right as a free agent and is looking at all of his options in the NHL.
Here is a quick scouting report by Hockey’s Future:
A bit of a late-riser, Pribyl is a work in progress whose height, long reach, and soft hands make him a capable goal scorer. Despite that height, he is not an overly physical player and has not yet demonstrated the ability
to consistently battle in small areas. As with many players his height, his skating balance and overall agility are issues but should improve as he matures. Pribyl’s positional play is also a bit of an unknown at this point but coaches who have worked with him compliment his work ethic and determination to improve.
It sounds like Pribyl could make a good edition to the Predators third line as soon as next season and could provide some nice scoring depth. If the Predators were to land Pribyl and he were to make a decently smooth transition to the NHL, that would somewhat help soften the blow if Jimmy Vesey doesn’t sign. More likely than not, his speed will keep him from playing in a top six role but size, scoring touch, and potential are always welcomed. He stands over 6’2” and weighs over 216 pounds, according to the HC Sparta Praha roster page.
It is important to note how often European signings like this one don’t always pan out because those players aren’t always able to make the transition to the faster North American game. Still, this situation with Pribyl will be one to keep an eye on, for sure.