The Kelowna Rockets have released forward Daniel Pekar.

The club granted the 19-year-old his release to accommodate his wish to return home and continue his hockey career in Czechia.

Pekar was drafted seventh overall by Kelowna in the 2025 CHL import draft.

However, he struggled to get acclimated in the WHL and managed just four goals and four assists over 32 games.

“The Kelowna Rockets would like to wish Daniel the best in his move back to Czechia,” a statement from the team said.
 

Unfortunately, the Rockets are left without any realistic options to fill the club’s now-open third import spot with Pekar departure.

With the trade deadline having passed, the only player Kelowna could bring over to North America to fill that spot would be Frantisek Poletin.

However, it’s unlikely that the 17-year-old goaltender, who is Tomas Poletin’s younger brother, would make the move to the WHL this season.

The Rockets will likely finish the season with just two out of three import spots filled by the elder Poletin and Vojtech Cihar.