Former New Jersey Devils forward Patrik Elias was named the new general manager of the Czech men’s national team on Wednesday.
Elias, who retired after the 2015-16 season, spent 20 years playing for the Devils. He won two Stanley Cups during his time with the team which included 1,240 games played.
He has spent the past three years as a sports advisor with HC Slavia Prague.
“Patrik is a recognized personality not only in our country,” Czech Hockey president Alois Hadamczik said, per a translation. “He has an overview of players in the NHL and, thanks to his work in the Czech Republic in recent years, also of players here at home. He has management skills and I believe that he will be a benefit to Czech hockey.”
On the international stage during his playing career, Elias won bronze at the 2006 Olympics in addition to bronze medals at the 1998 and 2011 World Hockey Championships.
