Martin Necas: The Unstoppable Force Behind Czechia and Colorado
It's February 18th, and Martin Necas is still catching his breath after a heart-wrenching game that saw his Czechian team bow out. Despite the defeat, his pride shines through: “I am proud of what we have done, especially in this last game.”
That last game was a nail-biting OT loss to Canada, featuring his NHL teammates Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews. On the eve of this clash, Necas quipped, “Yeah, we let them (Team Canada) win the first one because we knew we wouldn’t beat Canada twice in a row.” A lighthearted jab that underscored his competitive spirit.
While much of the post-game chatter centered on the epic USA-Canada finale, Necas’ standout performance throughout the tournament didn’t receive the spotlight it deserved. Fast forward to March 2026, and Necas is a key player in Colorado’s quest for dominance. Although MacKinnon and Makar often steal the headlines, make no mistake-this has been Necas’ year, justifying every penny of his $92 million contract.
Olympic Standout
The Olympics were a dream stage for Necas, and he delivered as one of the top players, racking up 8 points (3G, 5A) in five games-a remarkable 1.60 points per game. His heroics helped Czechia reach the quarterfinals against Canada, including a pivotal goal and assist in a victory over Denmark.
Czechia might have been an underdog, but Necas and his teammates defied expectations, nearly toppling the powerhouse Canadian team. They held a 3-2 lead until Canada’s Nick Suzuki tied it, sending the game to OT.
Necas had a breakaway chance in overtime, only to be thwarted by a non-call on a hook from Toews. Eventually, Mitch Marner sealed the game for Canada.
Despite not medaling, Necas was undeniably among the tournament’s elite players, showcasing his skill and tenacity.
The Human Element
The transition from the Olympics back to the NHL isn’t easy, especially for European players like Necas who don’t return home immediately. “It is weird because you don’t really go home, back to Czechia. You go back to your teams,” Necas shared, highlighting the unique challenges faced by international players.
Yet, Necas has handled the whirlwind with professionalism and pride, bringing his Olympic form back to Colorado. Since returning, he’s been on a tear, notching double-digit goals and maintaining his blistering pace.
Party On?
How long could the Marty party last? Well, it’s still going strong.
Since the Olympic break, Necas has been on fire, with eight multi-point games in his last 14 outings. He’s amassed 10 goals and 24 points in that stretch, including standout performances like a three-point night against Chicago and two assists in an OT win over Washington.
Necas is setting career highs across the board: 32 goals, 84 points, an 18.9% shooting percentage, and elite underlying numbers like a +44 rating. His chemistry with MacKinnon is palpable, and he’s on track for a potential 90 or even 100-point season.
Job's Not Done
Before the Olympics, Necas acknowledged the strength of his Canadian teammates, saying it’s “better to be on their side than against.” But they’d likely say the same about him. When Necas signed his contract back in October 2025, skeptics questioned if he’d live up to the hefty commitment.
Fans can rest easy knowing Necas is delivering in spades. His focus on winning and bringing a Stanley Cup back to Colorado is evident in his play.
Despite early doubts, Necas’ contributions are becoming undeniable as Colorado gears up for the playoffs. With his Olympic momentum fueling a career year, the Marty party might just lead to a championship celebration.