Slavia Prague Faces Disappointment After Playoff Exit, Bruk Hints at Roster Changes

PRAGUE – A promising season for HC Slavia Praha came to a disappointing complete in the quarterfinals of the Maxa Liga, falling to RI OKNA Berani Zlín in a decisive Game 5 defeat. Despite finishing atop the league standings in the regular season, Slavia was unable to translate that success into a deep playoff run. The series concluded with a 3-0 loss on home ice, leaving both players and coaching staff reflecting on what could have been.

“It’s not easy to talk right now. It’s a huge disappointment,” said head coach David Bruk, acknowledging the sting of the early exit. Captain Jan Holý echoed those sentiments, stating, “I expected it to go further.”

Zlín, initially underestimated, proved to be a formidable opponent. Holý noted the team’s resurgence under coach Peter Oremuse, climbing from the bottom of the league table to secure a playoff berth and ultimately upset Slavia. “Everyone underestimated Zlín, they didn’t have a fine start to the season. But then they improved,” Holý explained in an interview with the club’s website. Zlín dispatched Pardubice’s reserve team in three games before facing Slavia, demonstrating their playoff momentum.

Game 5 proved to be the turning point, with Zlín securing a 3-0 victory in Prague. Bruk emphasized Zlín’s experience as a key factor in their success. “We saw excellent hockey. Unfortunately, we lost in the fifth game. We need to respect the quality of Zlín. In crucial moments, it was decided… my colleague spoke about luck, but I think it was the experience of players who are battle-tested from higher leagues. They know how to play,” he said.

Despite the setback, the season marked a significant step forward for Slavia Prague. After missing the playoffs entirely last season and facing questions about their competitiveness, the team exceeded expectations. “Before the season, everyone predicted we’d be happy just to stay up. As the season progressed, that changed. We showed everyone People can play,” Holý stated.

Much of Slavia’s turnaround is credited to the arrival of coach Bruk, who instilled a clear identity and playing style. The work of Patrik Eliáš, the head of the sporting department, was instrumental in assembling a competitive roster. Eliáš successfully scouted and acquired players from North America and elsewhere, adding depth and talent to the team. “Last year I wasn’t here, and things weren’t as expected. The core of important players remained, and the team was strengthened. I would say miraculously – all the additions fit perfectly. The guys played above expectations,” Bruk acknowledged.

The team’s success wasn’t solely built on veteran leadership. Bruk also focused on developing young players, providing them with opportunities to gain experience and contribute to the team’s success. These young players gained valuable experience in the high-pressure environment of the playoffs, playing alongside seasoned veterans.

Looking ahead, Bruk expressed optimism about the team’s future, indicating a desire to retain the majority of the current roster. “I’m glad that almost the whole team will stay. But that’s also a question for Patrik. What I know is that a lot of players should continue,” he revealed during a press conference. He added, “We have experienced players, but not many. The young guys went through a season that went well. They toughened up in tough playoff games, played against veterans with huge names. Logically, they should be better next year.”

Bruk himself is expected to remain as head coach, despite potential interest from other clubs. The club is also actively planning for the construction of a new arena, signaling a long-term commitment to the future of the organization.

Even as the disappointment of the playoff exit is still fresh, a positive outlook prevails within the Slavia organization. The team has demonstrated significant progress, possesses a strong coaching staff, and is developing a promising core of young players. The combination of these factors positions Slavia Prague for continued success in the Maxa Liga.

The focus now shifts to the offseason, where the club will evaluate its performance, address areas for improvement, and prepare for another run at the championship next season. The next steps for Slavia Prague will be closely watched by fans and rivals alike.

(This article is based on reports from hokej.cz and other sources as of March 18, 2026.)