I thought the same but I came across a post from Brock Otten on the OHL Prospect blog back in July.
Here is an excerpt:
Just to remind you, CHL clubs are permitted to carry only two import players on their team or protected list every year. However, if a CHL team has an Import who was an NHL first round pick they receive the opportunity to add another player to their protected list to cover should that first round import make the pro level. There are other scenarios which can allow you to carry the rights of three (such as having an OA Import,
having an Import on their protected list who didn't show the year prior, having a player signed to an NHL contract on your list, etc). It is a pretty complicated process.
It's as clear as mud!
I agree with this. The Petes are headed for the 2nd overall pick in the import draft at the rate they are going.
Early prediction........the Petes select a player from Czechia to help with the transition for Novotny and this player.
Here are details on 4 top Czech players eligible for the 2025 NHL draft; take your pick:
Radim Mrtka is a massive right-handed defenceman who is a pure A-rated prospect. He moves well for his size, can carry the puck up the ice, and regularly joins the rush. He also possesses a powerful point shot. What sets Mrtka apart is his hockey IQ and attention to small details, which make him an intriguing player to watch. I particularly like his aggressive challenges against opposing players, as he knows how to use his reach effectively.
While I’ve mentioned that younger players are getting more ice time, unfortunately, Mrtka has been facing more limitations recently. He’s been given less ice time and was even sent down to Třinec’s farm team for one game.
Štěpán Černý, LD, Mountfield HK U20 (2025 NHL Draft) 5'6", 140lbs
played with Novotny last year, undersized but great offensive Dman
The Czech defender plays in the Czech Extraliga U20, where he has played 11 games so far and scored 6 points.
Stepan Cerny can read the play, as he continually makes very good guesses regarding the movement of opponents to get into position and break up offensive plays. Many times, he knows how the play will unfold before it happens, adding to his dependability on defence.
This season, Černý has been good under pressure. He keeps his nerve in high-pressure moments, using his solid edgework to stay balanced and agile as forwards come at him. His lateral movement is especially effortless, with gaps being shut quickly as attackers are forced into worse positions.
Vojtech Cihar, LW, HC Energie Karlovy Vary (top league in Czechia) (2025 NHL Draft) 6'1", 190lbs
Vojtech Cihar - Stats, Contract, Salary & More
Jan Skok, LD, HC Plzeň (top league in Czechia) (2025 NHL Draft) 6', 200lbs
Jan Skok - Stats, Contract, Salary & More
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www.eliteprospects.com
