Borna Rendulic has made NHL history. That’s pretty impressive considering he hasn’t even played in his first NHL game. As reported by KHL.hr, Rendulic is the first Croatian player to sign a contract with an NHL team. Other NHL players have Croatian roots, but Rendulic is the first who started his hockey career in Croatia. He inked a two-year, $1.24 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche, earning him a special place in league history.
Who is Rendulic? He has spent the last three seasons skating in the SM-liiga. In 2013-14, he tallied 11 goals and 21 assists over the course of 57 games. He’s an interesting prospect who will now try to compete for a spot with a talented, young Colorado roster.
It is worth noting that the Croatian’s new contract is of the two-way variety, meaning odds are good he’ll probably spend 2014-15 down in the AHL. At the very least, he’ll have a shot to earn a role at the NHL level during training camp, but he’s currently a pretty big long shot to crack the regular roster.
Rendulic commented on his new deal, telling KHL.hr:
“This really is a dream come true, but just the first part of the dream. Throughout the years, I was aware of the continuous Colorado interest and I was in touch with the NHL agents. I have always believed this moment will come and I had no doubts when the opportunity arose. I was overjoyed. Now, there is a difficult summer ahead, I will prepare myself with my personal trainer Jurica Franković. My goal is to make it to the team and play in the NHL – I do not want to be just another passer-by.”
Photo via yle.fi
