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Blackhawks sign Czech forward Jakub Pour to 2-year, entry-level contract

Posted on by L_B_R

The Blackhawks announced on Tuesday that they’ve signed Czech forward Jakub Pour to a two-year entry-level contract with an annual salary cap hit of $842,500.

Pour, 22, produced 16 points (12 G, 4A) in 48 games this past season for in the Czech League, a career high for the the 6-foot-3, 198-pound forward. Over the last four seasons, he had 42 points (27 G, 15 A) in 144 career Czech League regular-season games and had five points (all goals) in 16 playoff games. While his production isn’t anything to write home about, it’s been solid the last two seasons considering he’s played in a more defensive, middle-six role with his team.

It’s no surprise to see the Blackhawks signing another player from Europe considering how valuable their European scouting has been over recent years. Pour is even a former teammate to current Blackhawk Dominik Kubalik when both were with HC Pilzen of the Czech League during the 2017-18 season. Pour even mentioned that Kubalik was a factor in his signing:

“Ever since Dominik Kubalík started playing for the Blackhawks, I have been following the club in great detail, the whole organization seems very nice to me. Great players, traditions, great triumphs. I’m excited and looking forward to it.”

Pour added to an already overflowing forward group heading into training camp next season, so unless he really impresses quick, it’s likely that he’ll be starting ‘20-21 with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL. Pour seems to understand the situation in Chicago:

“In Chicago, I will do my best to fulfill my dream of playing in the NHL. I believe it will be sooner than later, but I will be patient. Whether the chance comes after a month or in the second year of the contract, I have to be prepared.”

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