Comments on: Evaluating Petr Mrazek’s NHL Debut

By: Lynsey

Lynsey — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 20:24:06 +0000

Thanks Justin for the comprehensive breakdown. Does Mrazek count as a ‘”small” goaltender at 6’0″? Based on the comparison of his WJC performance and now, he seems to harnessed some of his athleticism into proper technique. Is this a good improvement?

By: Chicago Blackhawks NHL revenge fight with Raffi Torres, more hockey news | Home Ice - SI.com

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 15:01:11 +0000

[…] Detroit’s depth lines finally produced and rookie goalie Petr Mrazek came up big in a decisive 5-1 win over the reeling […]

By: Kyle

Kyle — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 02:34:10 +0000

How does Mrazek’s puck-handling grade out? He seems to be extremely aggressive in going after the puck on dump-ins.

By: Justin Goldman

Justin Goldman — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 01:59:00 +0000

In reply to Kyle.

Detroit has traditionally developed their goalies very slowly, Howard being a prime example. I don’t see Mrazek being with the team once Gustavsson is healthy, but he does have an extremely bright future with the Red Wings organization. He has a lot of potential and skill upside, more than Howard. But he’s only 20 years old (turns 21 next week) and needs to continue developing in the AHL for at least another year. I would say the Red Wings will give him more opportunities since they don’t have any prospects beyond McCollum, who has not come close to living up to expectations. So to answer your question, even if Mrazek plays well in a few games, I don’t see him sticking for good, unless he’s able to keep playing. The key is getting the playing time, so if he sits on the bench behind Howard, it’s a negative. Part two of your question — give him at least two full AHL seasons, then I see the Wings giving him a chance to make the team. But every goalie is different, and Mrazek is one of the most talented prospects the Wings have ever had. There are good odds his path to the NHL takes less time than that.

By: Kyle

Kyle — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 01:24:09 +0000

Do you see any possibility that a couple solid showings with Gustavsson out could result in Mrazek seeing extended time with the Wings? If not, how long do you envision him being stuck in the AHL behind Howard and whatever veteran backup the Wings might have? Detroit always seems to be a team that prefers to have a veteran as the backup.