URGENT UPDATE: Just hours after being traded to the Des Moines Buccaneers, Alan Lendak made a stunning impact in Slovakia’s opening match at the 2023 World Junior Championship (WJC) against Sweden, held at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul. The 19-year-old goalie stopped 29 of 32 shots, earning the Player of the Game honor despite a heartbreaking 3-2 loss.
On December 22, just before the game against Czechia, Lendak learned of his trade from the Fargo Force—a move that shocked him as it seemed everyone around him knew before he did. “Nobody wanted to tell me I got traded,” Lendak stated. The following day, Fargo’s General Manager, Brett Skinner, confirmed the news, assuring Lendak that the transition would allow him to play more games in Des Moines.
In his debut at the WJC, Lendak faced a tough challenge from Sweden, allowing only one even-strength goal. “It was a great game. Tough luck, obviously,” he said. The key moment came when Sweden’s Ivar Stenberg scored the decisive goal with just under four minutes left in regulation. Slovakia will face another pivotal match tomorrow, and Lendak is focused on the challenge ahead.
Slovakian coach Peter Fruhauf praised Lendak’s performance, stating, “You go with the goalie who has the best capabilities to save the day, which he did. It was an outstanding job from him.” Lendak’s performance follows a solid season with the Fargo Force, where he posted a 2.45 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage across 11 starts.
The Des Moines Buccaneers have been struggling with goaltending, as none of their current goalies have a save percentage over .900. Lendak expressed excitement about his new opportunity, saying, “I’m obviously focusing on the World Juniors… I’m excited to join them.”
This WJC marks Lendak’s second appearance; last year, he faced challenges in Ottawa, where he recorded a 6.10 goals-against average and a .767 save percentage. This time, he is determined to make a significant impact.
As the tournament progresses, Lendak will have logistics to sort out concerning his belongings in Fargo, but for now, his focus remains on leading Slovakia through the championship.
Stay tuned for further updates as Slovakia continues its quest in the WJC!
