Ondrej Palat reveals the truth about representing the Czech Republic at the Olympics
The New York Islanders return to action Thursday against the Montreal Canadiens after the Olympic break. They sent two players to Milan: Bo Horvath represented Team Canadaand Ondrej Palat was in the Czech team. Palat now returned with the Islanders and reflected on his time at the Olympics.
Ondrej Palat says it was an “incredible experience” to represent the Czech Republic at the Olympics pic.twitter.com/vi1ivfIB0v
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“Yeah, I mean, being part of the Winter Olympics is something I’ve dreamed of. Obviously, I think every athlete in the world (does). So I’m lucky enough to be a part of it for the second time, and it’s been an amazing experience again,” Palat told SNI Islanders.
Palat was changed from the New Jersey Devils to the Islanders just before the break, scoring three points in six games on Long Island. He then went on to represent the Czech Republic at the Milan Olympics. While there, Palat scored one of the biggest goals of the tournament in the quarter-finals.
In the quarterfinals against Canada, Palat got away from Jordan Binnington and scored, giving the Czech Republic the lead in the third period. Nick Suzuki forced overtime before Mitch Marner saved Canada’s medal bid in overtime. The palace was almost a Czech hero before Canada took the win far away
Now, Horvath and Palat rejoin the Islanders in key moves. They are four points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets, holding third place in the Metropolitan Division. Both Olympians are back healthy, and Patrick Roy said he expects both to play Thursday.
Palat went from struggling in New Jersey to a potential playoff team in Long Island when he was traded. Playing in high-stakes games overseas should be great preparation for a run with the Islanders. If he can improve his scoring rate, he could be the scorer the Islanders need for a championship run.
2026-02-25 02:28:00
