David Pastrňák
A Czech scoring machine with a wicked shot, he became the offensive engine of the Boston Bruins and a global hockey superstar.
Born 1996 (age 30)·Czech ice hockey player·Birthday: May 25·Millennials
Biography
David Pastrňák's journey from the rinks of Havířov to the bright lights of the NHL is a story of pure, unadulterated offensive talent. Drafted by the Boston Bruins in 2014, the winger nicknamed 'Pasta' quickly baked his way into the hearts of fans with a blend of silky hands, creative playmaking, and a release that baffles goaltenders. He didn't just join the team; he revitalized its attack, forming one of the league's most potent lines and consistently ranking among the top goal-scorers. His flair extends beyond the ice, marked by charismatic goal celebrations and a distinctive fashion sense. Pastrňák carries the torch for Czech hockey on the world stage, embodying a joyful, skillful style that makes him one of the most watchable players of his generation.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
David was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When David Was Born
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
David's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1996Born
Dolly the sheep cloned
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $99,700Min wage: $4.75/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Macarena" — Los del RioBest Picture: The English Patient
2001Started school
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2009Became a teenager
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2012Could drive
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Gas: $3.64/galHome: $143,200Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Somebody That I Used to Know" — GotyeBest Picture: Argo
2014Could vote
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Gas: $3.37/galHome: $160,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Happy" — Pharrell WilliamsBest Picture: Birdman
2017Turned 21
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
Gas: $2.42/galHome: $195,000Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"Shape of You" — Ed SheeranBest Picture: The Shape of Water
2026Turned 30
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Scored 61 goals in the 2022-23 NHL season, becoming the first Bruin to reach the 60-goal mark since Phil Esposito in 1974-75.
- Won the Maurice 'Rocket' Richard Trophy as the NHL's leading goal scorer for the 2019-20 season.
- Recorded a career-high 113 points (61 goals, 52 assists) during the 2022-23 campaign.
- Represented the Czech Republic at multiple IIHF World Championships and the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Did You Know?
His nickname 'Pasta' was given to him by former Bruins teammate Brad Marchay due to the difficulty of pronouncing his surname.
He is known for his elaborate and often humorous goal celebrations, including a famous 'hot dog' celebration.
He wears the jersey number 88 as a tribute to his childhood idol, Jaromír Jágr.
He and his partner welcomed a son named Viggo Rohl in 2021.
“I just try to go out there and have fun. That’s when I play my best hockey.”
