The Making of a Hockey Star: Martin Nečas

Get an inside look at the life and career of NHL star Martin Nečas, from his early days playing hockey in the Czech Republic to his current success in the league.

Martin Nečas: How Martin Erat Shaped My Game

In an exclusive interview with Bez frází, a Czech sports website, I, Martin Nečas, share my story of how I developed my playing style and the significant impact Martin Erat had on my game. Recently traded from the Carolina Hurricanes to the Colorado Avalanche, I reflect on the lessons learned from my time with Erat.

I recall a specific moment when Nicklas Bäckström's exceptional puck-handling skills caught my attention. His ability to control the puck with his back to the boards, ready to deliver a precise pass, left a lasting impression on me. Erat would often analyze such plays, breaking down the smallest details, and explain how each player's movement contributed to the overall success of the play.

During my first professional season with Brno, Erat would regularly show us clips of top NHL teams, including the Washington Capitals' potent power-play unit. He'd pause the video, pointing out subtle details, such as stick positioning and player movement, that made all the difference in creating scoring opportunities. Erat's attention to detail and passion for analyzing the game had a profound impact on my development as a player.

Erat's coaching style was unique, as he'd often use clips from our own games and practices to illustrate key points. His ability to identify areas for improvement and provide constructive feedback helped me refine my skills and gain a deeper understanding of the game. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have learned from him.

Martin Erat: The Perfect Mentor for My Hockey Journey

Martin Erat was the ideal mentor for me at the start of my career. I've always been passionate about hockey, constantly thinking about the game and analyzing ways to improve. Erat's guidance and expertise were invaluable, providing me with advice and explanations that helped shape my understanding of the game.

My introduction to Erat's coaching style was a revelation. At 17, I had no idea that hockey could be broken down and analyzed to such a great extent. In youth leagues, our coaches would provide basic tactics, and we'd focus on executing them. Erat's approach was different; he'd dissect every aspect of the game, highlighting subtle details that made a significant impact.

One piece of advice that has stuck with me is Erat's emphasis on changing pace. He'd remind me to "slow down a bit" when I'd rush along the boards with the puck. His guidance taught me to ease up and then accelerate again, making it harder for defensemen to anticipate my next move. This tactic proved particularly effective in the NHL, where defensemen are faster and more agile.

Erat's teachings had a profound impact on my game, preparing me for the nuances of the NHL. His attention to detail and ability to break down the game into manageable components helped me develop a more sophisticated understanding of hockey. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have learned from him, and I believe that his mentorship played a significant role in my success.

A Turning Point in My Career

I owe a great debt of gratitude to Martin Erat and club owner Libor Zábranský, who believed in me at just 17 years old. Erat insisted on having me on his line, and Zábranský supported this decision, giving me the opportunity to play alongside more experienced teammates. Their trust in me was a pivotal moment in my career, and I'm grateful for their willingness to take a chance on me.

More Than Just Skill

While I had technical ability when I entered professional hockey, I quickly learned that there's more to being a hockey player than just skill. I had to learn how to behave, when to speak up, and when to stay silent. I had to earn the respect of my teammates and coaches by doing what was asked of me. Erat's guidance and analyses were instrumental in my growth, and I made sure to listen, learn, and apply what I learned to my game.

In the Zone

When I'm on the ice, I'm completely focused on the game. The noise of the crowd becomes a distant hum, and I'm able to tune it out. But when I make a highlight-reel play, like slipping the puck through an opponent's legs or pulling off a spin-o-rama, I know the crowd is about to erupt. In that moment, I feel a surge of energy and adrenaline, and I'm in my zone. It's a state of complete focus and exhilaration, where I feel like I can play forever without getting tired. This is what fuels me, and this is how I play when I'm at my best.

My Moment in the Spotlight

There's a specific moment during a game when I know I have the entire arena's attention. It's the moment when everyone is waiting for me to make a move, to pull off something incredible. I thrive in this moment, feeding off the energy of the crowd. I love being the center of attention, and I live for the opportunity to showcase my skills.

MacKinnon ➡️ Necas ➡️ Makar

Martin Necas has his first point with the @Avalanche! 👏

📺: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF pic.twitter.com/h3pMyY2qJ2

— NHL (@NHL) January 26, 2025

My Playing Style: A Reflection of My Personality

My former teammates in Carolina know me well, and they're aware that I often choose the more difficult path. Even when I could easily skate around an opponent, I prefer to challenge them directly, to push through and come out on top. It's not just about necessity; it's about my confidence in my abilities and my desire to make a statement. This aspect of my game is deeply personal, and it's something that brings me joy.

The Joy of the Game

For me, hockey is more than just a job or a livelihood – it's a source of joy. I love the feeling of accomplishing something on the ice that others can't. When I make a move that leaves the crowd in awe, it energizes me and drives me to keep pushing myself. My teammates often tease me about my signature moves, counting the number of times I manage to slip the puck through an opponent's legs. These moments are what make the game special for me, and they're what keep me motivated to continue performing at my best.