The Lethbridge Hurricanes have added a notable piece to their defensive corps, announcing a Western Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with 17‑year‑old defenceman Dominick Byrtus.
Byrtus, a dual citizen of the United States and Czechia, entered the organization through the 2026 CHL Import Draft, where he was selected third overall in the first round by the Hurricanes in June.
During the 2025‑2026 campaign he logged 23 regular‑season games for HC Ocelari Trinec U20, contributing four goals and eight assists while accumulating 16 penalty minutes; he also added ten post‑season appearances, notching seven assists and 11 minutes in the penalty box.
A loan stint in the Czechia2 league with HC Frydek‑Mistek saw him register a goal, an assist and a minus‑one rating across 22 games, underscoring his adaptability in a competitive environment.
A coach's endorsement
General manager Barclay Parneta praised the youngster, describing him as a smart, mobile defenceman who moves the puck well, competes hard and plays with confidence.
On the international stage, Byrtus is currently suiting up for Czechia at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, sharing the roster with fellow Hurricanes prospect Oliver Vanha.
His résumé also includes appearances for Czechia at the U17 and U18 levels, a bronze medal with the Czech U18 side at the World U18 Championships, and a stint at the World Under‑18 Championship where he recorded three assists in seven games.
The Hurricanes note that Byrtus is the first of three Czech‑born players from the 2026 Import Draft to sign with the club, a fact that hints at a broader strategy of integrating European talent into their lineup.