HALIFAX | There is an eight hour time difference between Calgary and Brno, Czech Republic. Although he doesn't often get the chance to watch Flames games, Czech prospect Eduard Sale makes it a point to watch highlights from all of Jonathan Huberdeau's games.

Sale, which is pronounced like "cottage", is one of the most promising prospects for the next NHL Draft and another member who has contributed to the resurgence of Czech hockey in recent years.

“I like Jonathan Huberdeau because we have the same style. He's a playmaker who makes good passes and has good skating," he summed up.

SIMILAR STYLES

This comparison is certainly not pricked with worms. Both wingers are 6'1" and Sale will need to add some flesh around the bone as he swings the scales at 168lbs, which is awfully similar to Huberdeau's situation in his year repechage in 2011.

Sale may not be selected as high as third overall in the next draft, as Huberdeau was in 2011 – although nothing is impossible – but he is already showing outstanding skills. for a kid his age.

"HE CAN DO ANYTHING"

So far, in addition to a World Junior game, he has been used on the Czech Republic's first line with Jiri Kulich and Matyas Sapovaliv.

"He's so good," complimented Kulich, who was a first-round pick by the Buffalo Sabers last draft. He's only 17, but he has experience fighting men. He is a very good person and an excellent player: he can shoot and pass. He can do anything. »

"He's so smart for a player of his age and you see it the moment he touches the puck," said Czech goaltender Tomas Suchanek. His intelligence allows him to make plays and he also possesses a good shot. »

In the CHL?

In six games so far in the tournament, he has five points.

"Playing against men has helped me in this tournament, although the style of play is a bit different. In the professional league, the game is slower and more tactical. Here, the rink is smaller and the game is faster. »

In fact, Sale mentioned that he would like to make the jump to Canada next year. We bet that several teams from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) are already on the job.