We’ve already covered a European goaltender worth keeping an eye on in the free-agent market, but KHL star Alexander Smolin isn’t the only name drawing interest.

This time of year also brings reclamation projects into focus, and Nick Malik is one that NHL teams appear to be circling back on. Son of former NHL defenceman Marek Malik, Nick was originally selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the fifth round (160th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft, just two picks after the Edmonton Oilers selected goaltender Samuel Jonsson.

In his original draft write-up at EliteProspects, they had this to say:

Originally passed on twice, Malik was eventually selected as a 20-year-old overager, already established as a starting goaltender in Finland’s top professional league (Liiga). That season with KooKoo, he posted a 15-9-9 record alongside a 1.97 goals-against average, a .922 save percentage, and four shutouts in 34 games. He followed that up with a strong playoff performance, going 7-7 with a 2.14 GAA and .926 save percentage, helping KooKoo advance to the semifinals.

At the time, it looked like a smart bet on a late-blooming goaltender trending in the right direction. Now a drafted prospect, Malik returned to Finland, where his numbers unfortunately regressed. He posted back-to-back sub-.900 save percentage seasons, ultimately leading to an exit from the Liiga ranks, and Tampa Bay opting not to sign him to an Entry-Level contract.

Now 23, Malik has re-established himself in Czechia and two seasons into his tenure, he has been one of the Extraliga’s top netminders. He’s posted a combined 45-31-0 record while maintaining back-to-back seasons above a .925 save percentage.

His best season was his most recent (2025-26), in which Malik led the league with a 1.65 goals-against average and a .929 save percentage, earning top honours in both categories while backstopping Plzeň to a second-place finish and a bye to the quarterfinals. Although the series did not go his way due to limited goal support, his underlying performance held. He posted a 1.97 GAA and .922 save percentage in a seven-game series loss.

At 6-foot-3 with pro experience across multiple European leagues, Malik offers a combination of size and renewed form that makes him a worthwhile gamble. He recently signed a two-year extension with Plzeň, but that doesn’t rule out a move to North America. European contracts often include NHL out-clauses or flexibility for loan agreements, meaning a team could bring him over on an AHL deal to evaluate his game in a North American environment.

For teams looking to add goaltending depth with some upside, Malik represents a classic low-risk, high-reward option.

Edmonton hockey fans — think you and your crew know playoff hockey? Prove it at the Nation Playoff Draft Party on Friday, April 17th at the River Cree Resort & Casino. Build your playoff roster, compete against other teams throughout the postseason, and battle for $2,500 cash and Nation bragging rights. Team entry is $1,000 for groups of 8, which includes dinner and your first bevy. The night will be hosted by Ryder & Lisa from The Sauce and Tyler & Liam from ON Everyday, so expect plenty of energy, competition, and chirps. Spots are limited — sign your team up now at nationgear.ca. All proceeds from the event support KidSport Edmonton, helping ensure local kids can stay in the game.