Another Canadian Defenseman Joins Plzeň After Productive Slovak Stint
HC Škoda Plzeň continues to bolster its defensive corps with the addition of another Canadian blueliner, signing Carter Robertson to strengthen their back end for the upcoming season. The 26-year-old defenseman arrives after a productive stint in the Slovak Extraliga, where he demonstrated the offensive capabilities and physical presence the club seeks.
Robertson, a native of Brandon, Manitoba, began his hockey journey in the prestigious Ontario Hockey League (OHL), spending four seasons with the Ottawa 67’s and Owen Sound Attack. Over 241 junior games, he accumulated 87 points (19 goals, 68 assists), showcasing early signs of his two-way potential.
His professional career took an unconventional path, launching directly in Europe during the pandemic-affected 2020/21 season with Liptovský Mikuláš in Slovakia. In 19 games, he recorded 8 points (2 goals, 6 assists), adapting to the larger European ice surface. After returning to North America, Robertson spent two and a half seasons in the ECHL with the Norfolk Admirals and Rapid City Rush, contributing 11 goals and 33 assists in 113 games. He also briefly tested the AHL level with the Charlotte Checkers, scoring one goal in five appearances.
Seeking a permanent return to Europe, Robertson joined the ICEHL in the 2023/24 season with Fehérvár AV19 in Hungary before moving back to Slovakia. There, he played for both Zvolen and Liptovský Mikuláš, confirming his role as an offensive-minded defenseman. In the most recent season, he tallied an impressive 42 points in 62 games, establishing himself as a reliable contributor at both ends of the ice.
HC Škoda Plzeň’s general manager Martin Straka praised the signing, noting Robertson’s similarities to fellow Canadian defenseman Dylan MacPherson, who joined the club earlier. Straka emphasized Robertson’s willingness to engage physically and his productivity, stating the club expects him to provide strong defensive support whereas contributing offensively.
The acquisition adds to Plzeň’s growing contingent of North American talent, following MacPherson’s arrival from Villach in the ICEHL. Both players bring experience from European leagues and a track record of offensive production from the blue line, addressing the club’s require for defensemen who can transition the puck effectively while maintaining defensive responsibility.
As Plzeň prepares for the upcoming season, the integration of Robertson into their defensive unit will be watched closely. His Slovak Extraliga experience provides familiarity with Central European hockey, potentially easing his adjustment to the Czech Extraliga. The club’s strategy of targeting productive Canadian defensemen with international experience appears aimed at creating a blue line capable of contributing to both defensive stability and offensive generation.
For continued updates on HC Škoda Plzeň’s roster moves and preparations for the upcoming season, fans are encouraged to follow the club’s official channels. Share your thoughts on the Carter Robertson signing in the comments below.
