David Krejci was born in the Czech Republic, but he went to the QMJHL rather than attempting to play for his nation’s top hockey league before eventually breaking into the NHL. However, if there’s a lockout, he will return to his native country to play hockey, according to CSNNE.com.
On the one hand, the opportunity to play in front of his family and friends on home soil would be great. However, he always pictured the Czech Republic as the place he goes to end his NHL career. If he returns this season, it won’t be under ideal circumstances.
“I never thought it would be when I was 26 [years old],” Krejci said. “A few teams have already contacted me from the Czech Republic. I would definitely go there. I wouldn’t go to any other countries. If they’re going to say there’s a lockout on Saturday, I’m not going to leave on Sunday or Monday. I haven’t given any [Czech] teams my word yet. My first priority is here, but then I’ll start making some decisions after that. There are so many things that go into picking a team.”
Krejci did get a taste of playing in the Czech Republic when the Boston Bruins kicked off the 2010-11 campaign in Prague.