Czechia’s Zacha Sidelines from Milano Cortina 2026 Due to Injury
Czech forward Pavel Zacha will miss the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics due to an upper-body injury. This announcement was made on Saturday, marking a significant setback for the Czech national team. Zacha’s place will be filled by Filip Chlapik from the Czech Extraliga.
Pavel Zacha’s Injury Impact
The Boston Bruins center has been sidelined since January 29, following an injury sustained during a match against the Philadelphia Flyers. Czechia general manager Jiri Slegr expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s sad for our team and, of course, for Pavel because he was very anxious to be here.”
In the current NHL season, Zacha has recorded 15 goals and 22 assists, totaling 37 points over 54 games, averaging 17:09 of ice time per game. His absence will surely be felt as the team prepares for the Olympics.
Filip Chlapik Steps In
Filip Chlapik, who is 28 years old, will join the Czech roster in Zacha’s stead. This season, he has performed commendably in the Czech Extraliga, notching 19 goals and 26 assists for a total of 45 points in 45 games. Chlapik previously played in the NHL with the Ottawa Senators from 2017 to 2021, participating in 57 games over four seasons.
- Pavel Zacha: 15 goals, 22 assists, 37 points in 54 NHL games.
- Filip Chlapik: 19 goals, 26 assists, 45 points in 45 Extraliga games.
Czechia’s Olympic Journey
Czechia’s men’s hockey team is set to open Olympic play on February 12 against Canada. They are in Group A, where they will face tough competition. The team will need to quickly adapt to Zacha’s absence in hopes of advancing in the tournament.
