Ondrej Becher is a changed player since the WJC

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William Austin
July 12, 2024 (9:10)

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If forward Ondrej Becher becomes a productive NHL player, the Detroit Red Wings should send Radim Rulik a thank-you card.

At the 2023 World Junior Championship, Rulik, coach of Czechia, made Becher his final cut, citing Becher's lack of interest in playing a two-way game. Departing the World Junior stage, Becher took the message to heart and embraced a commitment to a 200-foot game. This transformation led to the Red Wings making Prince George Cougars center Becher the 80th pick in the 2024 draft.

While Becher's 32 goals and 96 points for the Cougars last season caught attention, he attributes his success to his improved defensive play.

«I started to play more defensively, so I became a two-way player now,» Becher said. «I think that's why I'm here now.»

At the 2024 World Juniors, Becher played a starring role for Czechia, posting 3-7-10 totals in five games. He modelled his game after David Krejci, a player known for his two-way play.

The Red Wings see potential in Becher, with assistant GM Kris Draper noting his great opportunity and impressive numbers. The biggest question now is where Becher will play next season. At 20, he could be an overage in junior or adjust to playing on the wing in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins.

«We'll see what transpires here in terms of where he's going to play,» Red Wings director of player development Dan Cleary said.

Source: YardBarker
Defensive Play of Red Wings Prospect no Longer Offensive