Kelowna Rockets forward Pavel Novak will play at home for the time being

Photo: Marissa Baecker

Czech forward Pavel Novak has found a place to play for the foreseeable future.

The Kelowna Rockets announced Monday they have loaned Novak to Motor Ceske Budejovice of the Czech Extraliga.

The move came after Novak posted a goal and two assists in five games at the recently concluded World Junior Hockey Championships.

The Tabor, CZE native was a fifth round selection of the Minnesota Wild in the 2020 NHL draft, but was not invited to training camp.

It's unclear if Novak would return to the Rockets if the WHL is given the green light to begin operating. Presumably, he would have to quarantine for two weeks if he were able to return.

The WHL last week said it is fully committed to a 24-game regular season.

The league, along with all other junior leagues in the province remain shuttered due to the latest provincial health order, which expires Feb. 5. At that time, the order could be rescinded, or extended.

Meantime, the Rockets also announced Monday it has placed 20-year-old defenceman Devin Steffler on waivers.

Over two seasons, the undrafted blueliner picked up a goal and 10 assists in 121 games.