Decision On NHL Future Coming Soon From Jan Rutta
Now that the Czech Republic has been eliminated from the World Championships, Jan Rutta is expected to make his decision soon on which NHL team to sign with. This coming from Rutta’s agent Allen Walsh, who previously called Rutta “one of the top Czech offensive defensemen”.
Rutta was named the Czech’s player of the game in their final loss today at the hands of Russia, skating almost 19 minutes and recording six shots to lead his team. Indeed, Rutta is an excellent offensive player; he recorded 32 points in 46 games in the Czech league this year, and has always been a contributor on the powerplay.
The 26-year old defenseman shoots right, something that is hard to find around the league. His teammate David Kampf signed with the Chicago Blackhawks, but representatives from every team would have seen him at the World Championships this year. Should he find an agreement with an NHL team, he will be expected to step right into the league at least in a sheltered offensive role.
Darren Dreger of TSN has heard that both the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames have interest in Rutta, though can’t confirm if either has made an offer at this point. He adds that Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal are all not in on the Czech defender, though hasn’t updated on any US-based teams yet.
Jan Rutta Receiving NHL Interest
As NHL clubs continue to mine Europe and the KHL for any talent that may be able to help them, agent Allan Walsh of Octagon Hockey revealed on Twitter that Czech defender Jan Rutta has received offers from around the league. The 26-year old Rutta is currently playing with the Czech team at the World Championships.
Rutta put up 32 points in 46 games this season, more than his teammate David Kampf who recently signed with the Chicago Blackhawks. Kampf obviously is several years younger but the output of Rutta shouldn’t be overlooked. His size (6’2″ 200-lbs) and skill with the puck make him an intriguing option for teams around the league. Since moving up to the top Czech league full-time, he’s been one of the most effective offensive blueliners in the league.
While he’s not young anymore, Rutta still could likely help a powerplay in the NHL and is seeing similar icetime to Radko Gudas at the ongoing tournament. Countryman Jakub Jerabek was just signed by the Montreal Canadiens, and is less than a year younger. Jerabek is expected to step into the NHL right away, and Rutta could possibly do the same should he decide to come to North America.