In a surprising move that caught the attention of hockey fans around the globe, former Ottawa Senators forward Dominik Kubalik officially inked a deal with Switzerland’s HC Ambrì-Piotta on Wednesday. However, despite this new chapter in his career, the possibility of Kubalik returning to the NHL this season is not completely off the table.
The 28-year-old winger’s one-year contract with HC Ambrì-Piotta includes a clause that allows him to opt out and join an NHL team before December 15th, as stated in a press release from the team. This leaves the door wide open for Kubalik to potentially make a comeback to the North American hockey scene in the near future.
During his time with the Senators, Kubalik managed to tally 11 goals and 15 points in 74 games last season, showcasing his offensive abilities on the ice. His contributions to the team did not go unnoticed, as he made a significant impact during his tenure with the Ottawa franchise.
Kubalik’s journey to Ottawa began when he was traded from the Detroit Red Wings in a deal that also involved defenseman Donovan Sebrango and two draft picks in exchange for winger Alex DeBrincat back in July of 2023. This move marked a new chapter in Kubalik’s career, as he bid farewell to the Red Wings and embraced the opportunity to showcase his skills with the Senators.
Having been drafted 191st overall by the Los Angeles Kings in 2013, Kubalik has certainly come a long way since entering the league. With a total of 93 goals and 176 points in 357 career games split between the Chicago Blackhawks, Red Wings, and Senators, Kubalik has proven himself to be a valuable asset on the ice.
Hailing from Plzen, Czechia, Kubalik has also left his mark on the international stage, representing his country four times at the World Championship. Throughout his appearances, Kubalik has notched an impressive 20 goals and 38 points, solidifying his status as a top-tier player in the global hockey community.
In addition to his World Championship experience, Kubalik also played a key role in Czechia’s fourth-place finish at the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea. His performance during the tournament, where he scored two goals in five games, further showcased his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stages in hockey.
As Kubalik embarks on this new chapter with HC Ambrì-Piotta, fans can rest assured that his journey in the world of hockey is far from over. With the possibility of a return to the NHL still looming, Kubalik’s future remains bright, and the hockey world eagerly awaits his next move.
