Wild prospect Pavel Novak steps aside after cancer diagnosis
We're all pulling for you, Pavel!
The Minnesota Wild and the rest of the hockey world are sending well wishes to prospect Pavel Novak, who announced on social media today that he will be taking a leave of absence from the game after a cancer diagnosis. However, he promises to return stronger than ever.
"Unfortunately, my health condition does not allow me to prepare for next season," Novak (@pnovak111) wrote in a statement released by the Wild on Twitter. "I was diagnosed with an oncological disease a few days ago and will soon begin treatment."
"The coming months will not be easy for me but I firmly believe that everything will turn out well and soon I will fly again on the ice with joy and passion!" Novak wrote. "I will be back stronger! Please respect my privacy."
Novak was drafted by the Wild with the 146th overall (5th round) selection in the 2020 NHL Draft. He had also just signed a three-year entry level contract with the team in May that was slated to begin in the 2022-23 season.
