Ondrej Kase, free-agent forward, eyes NHL return

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Julien Trekker
May 20, 2024 (1:01 PM)

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A former member of the Toronto Maple Leafs who is now a free-agent, Ondřej Ka�e, is eyeing a NHL return according to a new report from Chris Johnston.

After missing the whole 2022-23 season due to a brain injury and his extensive concussion history, Kase was forced to leave the NHL to pursue his hockey career. He spent the current season in Czechia, where he played 48 games and scored 54 points for Litvinov HC, alonsgide his brother David.

He opened up about that experience and his health in an interview with The Athletic's Chris Johnston:

"I wasn't sure how healthy I am and all season was actually great. I felt unbelievable. All injuries were done. I played with my brother. Even as kids, we wanted to always play together and this was our chance. It was a great season. We lost in the semifinals and I think for the team it was pretty good."

Currently competing in the Men's World Championship in Czechia, he talked about how a return to the NHL is in his head:

"It's still in my head, for sure. I'm not sure after the championship what the situation will be. So we will see with my agent."

As of now, in the Championship, Ka�e tallied five points in six games, good for the 36th rank among the scorers.

In his season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, back in 2021-22, he scored 14 goals and 13 assists in 50 games.

Do you think Ondřej Ka�e will return in the NHL next season?

Source: The Athletic - Ondřej Ka�e's path to NHL comeback looks clear 2 years after neurological issues derailed career