Krzysztof Macias continues to make noise as Poland’s top prospect. He was selected in the first round of the 2023 CHL import draft, 15th overall, by the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League. The selection comes after a strong season in the Czech junior system that also saw him make his senior debut in the Tipsport Extraliga.

Macias recorded 54 points (29G-25A-54PTS) in 46 games at the Czech U20 level as an 18-year-old. This strong junior league production earned him two senior opportunities in the 2023 season. He played in five games with HC Vítkovice at the Tipsport Extraliga level while also getting in three Chance Liga games with Draci Šumperk. The Nowy Targ native also represented Poland at Division 1 Group B U20 World Championships and at non-IIHF senior events. He led the U20 event in both goals and points while taking home top player honors for Poland.

On the Prince Albert team site, General Manager Curtis Hunt talked about the addition of Macias, “We’re adding a mature player, one who can play in all situations. He’s a bigger, stronger guy. He’s a balanced scorer and he can play on both sides of the ice. We’re excited about that. I think he can add some scoring depth to our team, and we’re really excited to be adding him to the fold.” The Raiders are coached by long-time WHL and AHL coach Jeff Truitt, who also coached Canada U18 this past season.

Macias is the first Polish player selected in the CHL import draft since 2003 when the Vancouver Giants selected Marcin Kolusz. If he joins the Raiders, he will be only the fifth Polish player to play in any of the leagues under the Canadian Hockey League banner. He did sign a professional deal with HC Vítkovice this offseason, but that deal does contain an opt-out clause for any North American junior chances.

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