Red Wings sign Patrik Rybar of Slovakia, bolster goaltending depth

Detroit — In need of goaltending depth in the organization, the Red Wings signed goaltender Patrik Rybar to a one-year entry-level contract Monday.

Rybar, 24, a native of Slovakia, spent this past season with HK Hradec Kralove in the Czech Extraliga, the top professional pro league in the Czech Republic.

In 36 games, Rybar was 23-13 and led the league in goals-against average (1.73) and shutouts (7), and also had a .932 save percentage.

More:'It's insane'; Golden Knights amazing run heads to Stanley Cup Final

In the playoffs, Rybar had a 2.24 GAA and .918 SVS in 12 games.

Rybar (6-foot-3, 176-pounds) represented Slovakia in the recent world championships — where Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill coached Team USA — appearing in three games. He had a 1-1 record, with a 2.49 GAA and .906 SVS.

In four pro seasons split with Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Rybar has a 47-26 record, 1.93 GAA and .927 SVS.

The Red Wings are expected to sign an NHL veteran this summer in free agency to back up Jimmy Howard, who was the only goalie signed for next season in the organization.

Rybar is likely to play in Grand Rapids with either Tom McCollum or Jared Coreau, both of whom are unrestricted free agents.

ted.kulfan@detroitnews.com

twitter.com/tkulfan