After not playing in the season opener on Friday, 20-year-old Jiří Kulich played his second career NHL game for the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday in Prague.
“I immediately messaged my family and friends,” Kulich said about getting the word he was in the lineup. “I was really happy and I felt the support. It’s just a shame that Lukáš Rousek didn’t play too. It would be better for the fans as well, but nothing can be done.”
Kulich started the game on the second line, but the team was forced to juggle lines after J.J. Peterka left with a concussion six minutes into the game. He logged 17 shifts for 14 minutes of ice time, threw two hits, had a giveaway and a takeaway, and was a minus-2. He also took a minor penalty for hooking in the first period. The Sabres lost 3-1 to the New Jersey Devils.
“I tried to enjoy it, but then I made a mistake, so it didn’t work much anymore,” said Kulich, referring to the play that led to the Devils’ winning goal when he was unable to keep the puck in the attacking zone, which led to a 2-on-1 the other way.
Kulich was also on the ice for the Devils’ third goal.
“He looked a bit nervous, but that’s how young guys are sometimes,” Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff said after the game. “He’s a good player, he could go far.”
Kulich’s first NHL game was also against New Jersey – his first was a 7-2 Sabres loss in Newark last Nov. 26.
“That’s right, so far I have two games against them and two losses,” he nodded before adding with a smile, “I don’t want to hear about that team anymore.”
While the game itself could have gone better for Kulich, the day was amazing, getting the opportunity to play in his home country and take part in the pre-game ceremonial faceoff that included Czech hockey legend Patrik Eliáš dropping the puck.
“That was wonderful – I’m glad I could be a part of it,” said Kulich. “I’d like to thank (Buffalo captain) Rasmus Dahlin for letting me go out there.”
“It’s awesome,” said goalie Devon Levi. “Very rarely do you get to do that in, I think, his second game. I think he enjoyed it.
“I’m really glad he got the opportunity to play tonight,” Levi continued. “He’s got an unbelievable shot – he’s hard to stop in practise. He’s a special player – he’s got a great future ahead of him.”
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