Filip Novak

Player Overview Filip Novak is an 18-year-old Slovak forward playing for HK Spisska Nova Ves U20 in the Slovakia U20 league, generating enough attention to earn a selection at the 2026 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Current Production Over his last 10 games at the U20 level, Novak posted 2 goals and 1 assist for 3 points, accompanied by a minus-4 rating. The numbers indicate a modest offensive presence at the junior domestic tier, with limited playmaking output and defensive zone concerns reflected in the plus/minus.

Key Attributes Based on available information, Novak drew sufficient interest from Columbus's scouting staff to warrant a day-two selection, suggesting identifiable NHL-translatable traits that stood out in broader evaluation beyond raw point totals. His profile as a late-round pick in a Columbus rebuild context suggests he was valued as a developmental asset with upside traits rather than immediate production. The Blue Jackets' scouting department has historically prioritized compete level and skating foundation in later-round Slovak prospects.

2026 Draft Outlook Novak was selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets on day two of the 2026 NHL Draft, confirming a late-round projection consistent with his production profile. Improving his defensive-zone engagement — directly reflected in his minus-4 over the sample window — is the clearest area requiring development before he can realistically project onto an NHL roster timeline.