UPDATE: Just hours after being traded, Alan Lendak made a stunning impact in Slovakia’s opening match at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship, showcasing his skills despite a 3-2 loss to Sweden at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul.
In a dramatic turn of events on December 22, the 19-year-old Slovakian goalie learned he had been traded from the Fargo Force to the Des Moines Buccaneers just before facing off against Czechia. “Nobody wanted to tell me I got traded,” Lendak shared, emphasizing the surprise surrounding the trade. The day after, he received a welcome call from the Buccaneers, further igniting his excitement for his new journey.
During the WJC opener on Friday afternoon, Lendak stopped an impressive 29 of 32 shots, earning the title of Slovakia’s Player of the Game. “It was a great game. Tough luck, obviously,” he remarked, reflecting on the close match. Sweden secured victory with Ivar Stenberg scoring the decisive goal with under four minutes left in regulation.
Coaches point to Lendak’s skills as key to Slovakia’s performance. “You go with the goalie who has the best capabilities to save the day, which he did,” said Slovakian coach Peter Fruhauf. Lendak’s performance in the tournament is critical, especially after a tough first WJC experience last year, where he recorded a 6.10 goals-against average and a .767 save percentage.
Prior to the trade, Lendak was having a solid season with the Fargo Force, boasting a 2.45 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage in 11 starts. His move to Des Moines comes as the Buccaneers struggle with goaltending, none of their current goalies surpassing a .900 save percentage. Lendak’s arrival is anticipated to bolster their lineup significantly.
“I’m excited to join them,” Lendak expressed, focusing on the WJC for now. He is set to continue preparations for Slovakia’s next match, emphasizing the importance of momentum in the tournament. “We have a game tomorrow, so we have to get prepared for that.”
As Lendak navigates this pivotal moment in his career, he remains focused on performing at his best for Slovakia, hoping to improve on last year’s outcomes. His transition to Des Moines will be addressed after the tournament, marking a significant step in his professional journey.
Stay tuned for updates as Slovakia aims to bounce back in their upcoming matches, with Lendak in the spotlight as a key player to watch.
