WHL Saskatoon Blades

Blades Sign 2023 CHL Import Draft Pick Barcik

Published on July 20, 2023 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


Saskatoon, SK - The Saskatoon Blades are excited to announce the signing of 6-foot-2 defenceman Samuel Barcik to a Western Hockey League (WHL) Scholarship and Development Agreement.

The Zvolen, SVK product was drafted 56th overall by the Blades during the 2023 CHL Import Draft on Jul. 5th. Barcik was ranked 60th amongst European skaters last season by NHL Central Scouting.

"We're very happy to have Samuel signed today," said Blades general manager Colin Priestner, "He played the past season with professional players and more than held his own, and we expect him to provide a stabilizing physical presence on our back end over the next several years."

The right-handed shot played most of his 2022-23 season professionally with HKM Zvolen in the Slovak Extraliga. Barcik displayed a steady defensive game for his hometown club, adding two assists in 38 games at 18-years-old. In 18 games with HKM Zvolen U20, the 2005-born blueliner notched 14 points (3G, 11A) and collected 47 penalty minutes.

"We believe there is some untapped offensive potential with him, as well as he returns to playing against players his own age," said Priestner, "Hopefully the transition to Canada will be swift as he speaks fluent English."

Barcik is expected to attend his first Western Hockey League camp with the Blades this fall and represent the Blue and Gold next season. Details on the 2022-23 training camp will be released at a later date.

The Blades are happy to welcome Samuel and the Barcik family into the organization!

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Western Hockey League Stories from July 20, 2023


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