CALGARY — Samuel Honzek is optimistic that training alongside fellow Slovakia-born forward Martin Pospisil will enhance his development as he aims to secure a spot on the Calgary Flames roster.
The 19-year-old forward, chosen by the Flames with the 16th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has been working out in Slovakia with Pospisil, who is entering his second season with Calgary.
“He’s been a huge help. We’re pushing each other,” Honzek said during the Flames development camp last month. “We try to maximize every workout we do together on the ice. It’s tough, but I believe it will pay off. For instance, when I’m on the stationary bike, he encourages me to keep going, and there are times I feel like punching him because it gets annoying.
“That extra motivation is invaluable. He’s driving me forward, and I’m really thankful for that.”
Last season, Pospisil recorded 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists) in 63 games as a rookie with Calgary, establishing himself as a regular alongside rookie Connor Zary and veteran center Nazem Kadri.
Flames general manager Craig Conroy noted that Pospisil serves as a great role model for Honzek.
“Pospisil ranked third in fitness testing last year, so I know he’ll challenge Honzek every day,” Conroy said. “I believe this will be beneficial for his development.”
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 195 pounds, Honzek tallied 31 points (10 goals, 21 assists) in 33 games as captain of the Vancouver team in the Western Hockey League last season, following a strong performance of 56 points (23 goals, 33 assists) in 43 games during his draft year. His progress was hampered by various injuries.
“Last year is in the past,” Conroy stated. “We’re moving on and not dwelling on it. Injuries happen; he dealt with issues from his groin to his hand, among others. It was just one of those years.
“Now, we hope he can stay healthy moving forward. He seems to be in good shape as well.”
This renewed focus follows a positive development at the end of his 2023-24 season.
Honzek participated in three games with Calgary’s American Hockey League team, including one during the Calder Cup playoffs.
“Considering everything he faced last year, it makes sense,” said Flames director of player development Ray Edwards. “He dealt with injuries and travel, going back and forth to Europe multiple times. Missing the first couple of months of the season was really tough.
“One of the positives from last year was getting him in at the end and allowing him to play some games with the Wranglers and be around the team. That was truly beneficial. I think he ended the season on a high note.”
That positive conclusion has shifted Honzek’s focus toward the professional game, and he is ready to kick off his career in Calgary this season. He will turn 20 on November 12, which likely means he will join the AHL affiliate—the same team Pospisil started with last season before moving up to the NHL.
“It was a challenging season,” Honzek admitted. “It began with an injury, and wearing a letter on my jersey as a first-rounder added extra pressure. Last season wasn’t great for me; I recognize that. I know I can perform better, which is why I’m doing everything I can to prepare for this season and aim to make the team.
“That’s my goal: to get into a position to be ready, and eventually earn a call-up to showcase my abilities.”
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