Hanzal Built For NHL
If you are a team selecting in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, then Martin Hanzal has something to tell you. The bulky Czech speaks confident words about his strengths, both defensively and offensively.
"I would say that my strongest points are definitely my size and the ability to use it to my advantage," says Hanzal. "I don't have trouble with battling in traffic and can find the open teammate with a pass."
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The Ceske Budejovice standout has been a revelation in a comparatively shallow Czech class for the 2005 draft, and bypasses countryman Vladimir Sobotka in the McKeen's Top 100 as his country's top-rated representative.
Hanzal's game is most definitely not only about offense. He is coveted for bringing a two-way savvy into the mix, a side to his game he prides himself on.
"I can take care of my own end. I don't think I'm one-dimensional," says Hanzal. "The defensive game was always one of my strengths."
Hanzal acknowledges that there are facets to his game that require further development in order to succeed as a professional.
"I need to develop smoother skating skills. I'm working on improving the effectiveness of my stride and hopefully take my agility to another level too."
FOLLOW THE LEADER
Hanzal has emerged as the top player on the Ceske Budejovice junior team, currently tied in team scoring with his older brother Jiri.
One can attribute Hanzal's success to the inevitable on-ice chemistry between brothers but the cherry atop the cake has been the invaluable wisdom that came from the regular practices and occasional call-ups he has enjoyed with the senior team.
The NHL lockout bore some fruit for young players like Hanzal as he had the opportunity to pick the brains of the likes of Vaclav Prospal and Radek Dvorak, both seasoned NHL veterans. Their support has been instrumental in shaping Hanzal's outlook towards the game.
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE
A birth on the Czech Under-20 squad was not in the cards for Hanzal who, at 17, is still young enough to perform for the Under-18 national team. His age, along with a history of inconsistent tournament showings, most likely kept him out of consideration for the winter event.
This year Hanzal turned heads with a belligerent two-way showing at the Under-18 Junior Cup in August but was only a shadow of his former self at the Four Nations Tournament in Slovakia in November.
Developing a consistent approach to playing the game will be essential for Hanzal as expectations will be high when he competes at the Under-18's this coming April.
"That will be a great event and I hope that we can achieve great success in front of our fans," says Hanzal about the April tournament. "It is my goal to play there." Hanzal's parent city Ceske Budejovice will co-host the event with Plzen.
NHL ENTRY DRAFT
Although not a surefire first round selection for the upcoming draft, Hanzal is expected to go early on day one. His placing will heavily depend on his international performances over the months ahead.
Hanzal says that hockey is with him to stay.
"I'm definitely pursuing a hockey career. Playing in the NHL has been a lifelong dream of mine and I hope that one day it will come true."