The Buffalo Sabres have signed Radim Mrtka to a three-year, entry-level contract. The Seattle Thunderbirds defenceman was drafted by Buffalo ninth overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Mrtka is the fourth WHLer to sign his ELC, joining Braeden Cootes, Ben Kindel and Lynden Lakovic.
Mrtka had a successful rookie campaign in the WHL. He recorded 35 points in 43 games and represented Czechia at the 2025 U18 World Championship. Mrtka played a significant role on the blue line for Seattle all season and was a big part of why they were able to qualify for the 2025 WHL Playoffs.
Unless he cracks the Sabres lineup, Mrtka is scheduled to return to the WHL next season. He is also projected to be part of Czechia's team for the 2026 World Juniors. Listed at 6'6", 218 lbs, Mrtka has the potential to be a top-four defenceman at the NHL level.
Radim Mrtka of the Seattle Thunderbirds (Photo Credit: Brian Liesse/Seattle Thunderbirds/WHL)Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more from The Hockey News.
