HC Dukla Jihlava Faces Roster Changes Ahead of 2026/27 Season
HC Dukla Jihlava is undergoing roster adjustments following their baráž o extraligu (promotion playoff) loss to Litvínov, concluding on Saturday. The club has announced the departures of three players: defenseman Vlastimil Bilčík, defenseman Ondřej Dlapa, and goaltender Maxim Žukov.
A Stalwart Departs: Vlastimil Bilčík’s Six-Year Run Ends
Vlastimil Bilčík, 34, concludes a six-year tenure with Dukla Jihlava, becoming a key figure in the team’s successes. He contributed to four First League titles and was part of the squad that achieved promotion to the Extraliga in a previous stint with the club. His departure marks the end of an era for the team and its fans.
Recent Additions Also Moving On
Ondřej Dlapa, 34, joined Jihlava in January after his contract with Hradec Králové was terminated. During his 23 games in the Maxa liga, he recorded one goal and two assists, adding another assist during the promotion playoff series. His time with the club, though brief, contributed to the team’s playoff push.
Goaltending Adjustments: Maxim Žukov’s Second Stint Concludes
Maxim Žukov, 26, served as the backup goaltender to Adam Beran for the past two seasons. He previously played for Dukla Jihlava between 2020 and 2022 before spending two years with Vsetín. This season, Žukov saw action in three playoff games during the final series against Zlín due to an injury to Beran, though his performance wasn’t pivotal to the team’s success. The team recognized the importance of a reliable starting goaltender for future success.
What These Changes Mean for Dukla Jihlava
These departures signal a period of transition for HC Dukla Jihlava as they prepare for the 2026/27 season. The club has yet to announce any incoming players, with the focus currently on evaluating the team’s needs following the conclusion of the baráž. The loss of experienced players like Bilčík will require the team to identify and integrate novel talent to maintain its competitive edge.
The Importance of Goaltending Stability
The club’s statement highlights the critical role of a dependable starting goaltender. Adam Beran’s health and performance will be paramount, and the team may explore options to strengthen the goaltending position further. A strong netminder is often the foundation of a successful hockey team.
FAQ
Q: Who is leaving HC Dukla Jihlava?
A: Vlastimil Bilčík, Ondřej Dlapa, and Maxim Žukov are departing the club.
Q: What position did Vlastimil Bilčík play?
A: Bilčík was a defenseman.
Q: What was Maxim Žukov’s role on the team?
A: Žukov was the backup goaltender.
Q: When did Ondřej Dlapa join HC Dukla Jihlava?
A: Dlapa joined the team in January.
Q: What is the baráž o extraligu?
A: This proves the promotion playoff series to determine which team will advance to the Extraliga.
