Pastrnak Embracing Olympic Moment as Czechia’s Leader, Set to Face Canada and Former Teammate Marchand
When David Pastrnak hits the ice for Team Czechia’s Olympic opener against Team Canada on Thursday, it’ll be more than just another high-stakes matchup - it’s a personal milestone. The Bruins star is living out a lifelong dream, representing his country on the sport’s biggest international stage, and he’s doing it as one of Czechia’s top leaders.
Adding a little spice to the opener? Pastrnak will be lining up opposite Brad Marchand - his longtime teammate in Boston and familiar face on the other bench. But even without his usual running mate, Pavel Zacha, who was ruled out of the Games, Pastrnak isn’t short on support or admiration within the Czech locker room.
Pastrnak Earning Jagr-Level Respect
Among his teammates, Pastrnak’s presence is more than just a boost on the scoresheet - it’s inspirational. And when Czech players start drawing comparisons to Jaromir Jagr, you know they’re not throwing that praise around lightly.
Jagr, a living legend and icon back home, racked up 766 goals and 1,155 assists over a jaw-dropping 1,733 NHL games. He’s the gold standard for Czech hockey greatness.
But Pastrnak? He’s not just chasing that legacy - he’s starting to carve out one of his own.
With 413 goals in just 808 NHL games, Pastrnak is tracking toward territory that, not long ago, felt untouchable.
“He’s at the Jagr level, for sure,” said former NHL standout Jakub Voracek - and that’s a statement that carries weight.
For Team Czechia forward Tomas Hertl, it’s not just the stats that make Pastrnak special. It’s the way he carries himself - cool, calm, and completely locked in.
“He’s just a guy enjoying the moment,” Hertl said. “He’s never nervous; that’s probably why he is so good.”
At just 29, Pastrnak’s best years may still be ahead of him - and with the way he’s playing, Jagr’s goal total might not be as far off as it once seemed.
Bruins Well-Represented in Olympic Action
Pastrnak isn’t the only Boston Bruin making Olympic headlines. The tournament is loaded with Black and Gold talent, and the action is already underway.
Defenseman Henri Jokiharju and Team Finland kicked things off on Wednesday, followed by forward Elias Lindholm suiting up for Sweden. Sweden’s blue line, however, was missing Hampus Lindholm, who was scratched for their opener.
Thursday brings even more Bruins flavor to the ice. Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman will lead Team USA into their first game against Latvia - and that matchup has a little extra edge.
Latvia’s roster includes Bruins prospect Dans Locmelis and Florida Panthers forward Sandis Vilmanis, who just last week delivered a controversial elbow to McAvoy’s head. While Olympic play isn’t the place for payback, don’t be surprised if that moment lingers until April when Boston visits Florida.
In the meantime, the Olympic spotlight is firmly on Pastrnak - and if his teammates are right, we’re witnessing a player not just representing his country, but elevating it.