Could Jiri Tlusty be joining the Greyhounds after all?

Despite informing everyone at the National Hockey League draft that he will remain in the Czech Republic for the upcoming hockey season, the possibility of Jiri Tlusty playing for the Soo Greyhounds this year is looking better.

Tlusty was the Toronto Maple Leafs' first round draft pick, 13th overall, at the Entry Draft in June. The Greyhounds selected Tlusty in the first round of the 2005 Canadian Hockey Leaue Import Draft.

Tlusty, 18, has signed a three-year contract with the Leafs and the feeling is that Toronto management would prefer to develop the prized prospect in North America.

Becoming only the fifth Greyhound player ever selected by the Leafs, the 6'1", 195 pound Tlusty played for Kladno in the Czech league this past season.

Facing off against men almost double his age, he had seven goals and three assists for 10 points in 44 games. Tlusty was also the captain of the Czech Republic at the World Junior Hockey Championships.

To read a more detailed account of Tlusty's signing and potential arrival in Sault Ste. Marie from today's Toronto Star, click here.