Better late than never.

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Pastrnak, 19, has split his sophomore professional season between the Bruins and their American Hockey League affiliate in Providence.

Originally taken 24th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Pastrnak appeared in 46 games for the Bruins a season ago, scoring 10 goals and adding 17 assists.

The native of Havirov, Czech Republic has appeared in 10 games for the Bruins this season, recording two goals and two assists. Currently with the AHL Bruins, Sweeney says the plan is for Pastrnak to return to the big club upon the conclusion of the tournament.

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This will be the third World Juniors tournament in which Pastrnak has competed. Last year, Pastrnak had a goal and six assists in five games.

The Cezchs lost their Group B opener - 2-1 to Russia in a shootout on Saturday. The team is next in action on Monday when they take on Slovakia.

Pastrnak could be in the lineup for the team's third game on Wednesday against Belarus.