Dark clouds have darkened over Podhale Nowy Targ, as it was announced today that Marcin Kolusz would be staying with GKS Katowice on a one-year deal. Kolusz had initially signed an extension with Podhale Nowy Targ before being loaned to GKS Katowice for the end of the 2022 season. It is still unknown whether Podhale will have a PHL team for 2023; with Kolusz out, they have a single contracted player.

Marcin Kolusz is a certified Polish hockey legend. He was the last Polish player drafted to the National Hockey League after the Minnesota Wild selected him in the fifth round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He experienced a massive career rejuvenation after switching from a forward to a defenseman. This gave him a chance in Finland’s top league, the Liiga, and at Slovakia’s top level. He has spent most of his career in the PHL, playing 648 games. In his close to 700 games, he has posted 528 points (187G-341A-528PTS). 2023 will be his 18th season in the PHL.

For GKS Katowice getting Kolusz to return is a significant win. The team has seen quite a few top players leave for other PHL clubs or stronger leagues. GKS Katowice is set to defend its championship and represent Poland in the Champions Hockey League. With the arms races in the PHL heating up, Kolusz gives them strong puck-moving defensemen that many PHL teams lack.

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