Tomas Pobezal (C, L, 5’11”, 180, HK Nitra, 09/18/2006)
Tomas Pobezal is a mature, high-IQ, two-way forward who has established himself as a reliable contributor in Slovakia’s top professional league at just 18 years old. His defensive detail, positional awareness, and consistent effort level give him one of the higher floors among draft-eligible forwards this season. While his offensive ceiling may be limited by average skating, lack of size, and finishing tools, his ability to be effective in all three zones — and particularly on the penalty kill — makes him a legitimate candidate to hear his name called in the second or third round of the NHL Draft.
Why Tomas Pobezal Should Be an NHL Draft Pick
- Reliable Pro-Level Defensive Play at 18
Pobezal is already playing a top-9 role in Slovakia’s Extraliga, logging 1:22 per game on the penalty kill and trusted with faceoffs, puck support, and matchups against veteran pros. His ability to read plays, anticipate passing lanes, and consistently generate elite takeaway numbers (3.2 per game) speaks to his high-end hockey sense and commitment without the puck. - Positional Versatility and Responsibility
He plays center and both wings, contributes on both special teams, and handles faceoffs regularly, winning 45% — an impressive number given the physical maturity gap he faces. His +13 rating also stands out on a team where he is not leaned on offensively, showing he’s consistently making the right reads and positioning plays to stay on the right side of the puck. - Smart, Mature, Detail-Oriented Game
What separates Pobezal from many peers is his shift-to-shift intention and consistency. He draws penalties (0.4/game) by keeping his feet moving, finishes checks (1.05 hard hits/game), and manages pucks effectively (just 3.5 giveaways per game) despite playing against men. He’s a trusted player in late-game situations, particularly in his own end and on the penalty kill. His 1.31 loose puck recoveries after shots per game further highlight his anticipation and off-puck involvement. - History of Leadership and International Production
He has served as an assistant captain at international events, was a standout at the 2023 Hlinka-Gretzky (7 points in 5 games), and is frequently noted for his leadership and team-first mentality. In his age-appropriate international resume, he’s produced consistently and done so in a variety of roles.
Why Tomas Pobezal Should Not Be an NHL Draft Pick
- Limited Upside and Physical Ceiling
At 5’11”, 180 lbs, Pobezal is undersized for a forward without elite speed or true offensive upside. His skating is average, and his shot — while accurate — lacks power or deception (14% on Grade A chances, a modest mark for someone with his touch in tight). His passing success (85%) is acceptable, but his 0.59 passes per game leading directly to a teammate’s Grade “A” scoring chance is well below average for a forward logging over a minute of power play time. - Inconsistent Offense in High-Pressure Environments
At the 2025 World Juniors, Pobezal struggled despite solid usage on Slovakia’s second line and power play. He failed to produce meaningfully and was inconsistent shift-to-shift in the offensive zone. This raises questions about whether his offensive production can translate to higher levels, especially when playing against NHL-caliber opponents. - Lacks One Defining NHL Trait
Pobezal is strong in many areas, but doesn’t possess a standout skill. His shot is fine, his hands are good, his skating is passable, and his hockey sense is solid. But there’s no signature element that projects him as a future impact NHLer. If he fails to fill out and gain another step in pace and quickness, he could be stuck as a “tweener” — not skilled enough for a scoring role, not fast or physical enough for a fourth-line job.
Projection and Final Verdict
Draft Range: Mid-to-Late 2nd Round
NHL Projection: Middle-six, penalty-killing forward with leadership traits and defensive match-up potential.
Comparable: Artturi Lehkonen
Tomas Pobezal is the kind of player NHL teams covet in the 2nd and 3rd rounds — high floor, safe projection, positionally flexible, and a proven performer against men. His mature approach, elite defensive detail, and ability to anticipate and disrupt plays make him a potential long-term middle-six NHLer. While his offensive game may never carry him to the top six, he has the potential to carve out a match-up role, contribute on the penalty kill, and wear a letter one day in pro hockey.
If Pobezal can improve his skating and add strength without losing mobility, he will be an excellent organizational asset with NHL games in his future.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images