Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Blackhawks at IIHF Worlds: Petr Mrazek, Czechia Shut Out Austria

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Jonnie Nonnie | Last updated 5/18/24

Team Czechia called upon Petr Mrazek in its goalie rotation for Friday's game against Austria, and the Chicago Blackhawks netminder delivered a shutout. In his second appearance at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, Mrazek denied all 21 Austrian shots to backstop Czechia's 4-0 win.

Austria may not be a top-tier opponent, but it kept Mrazek busy in the second period by outshooting the Czechs 12-7. Ondrej Kase, former Blackhawk Dominik Kubalik, Jakub Flek, and David Tomasek provided goal support in front of the veteran.

With Friday's performance in the books, Mrazek owns a 1-0 record, .906 save percentage, and 1.50 goals-against average at the 2024 IIHF Worlds.

After signing a two-year contract extension during the 2023-24 season, Mrazek figures to serve as the Blackhawks' top goalie for the foreseeable future. The 32-year-old's veteran presence was a much-needed boost for a young, rebuilding Blackhawks' squad this past season.

Czechia returns to action Saturday against Great Britain at 1:20 PM CT. Since Mrazek started Friday, it's safe to assume he'll be watching the second half of the back-to-back slate from the bench.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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