The 2024 NHL draft is poised to become the year of the blueliners, as a plethora of high-end defensive talents dominate the upper echelons of numerous preliminary draft boards.

The majority of these standout prospects will be plying their trade in North America. However, Aron Kiviharju stands out as a noteworthy contender from Europe. Nevertheless, another player has firmly established himself in this competitive landscape.

Adam Jiricek boasts the pedigree of a top-tier prospect. Despite being just 16 years old, he has already gained substantial experience by participating in a significant number of games in Czechia's premier men's league. Furthermore, he assumed a pivotal top-four role in last spring's U18s event, even as an underager.

Adding to his credentials, his older brother David Jiric