Habsworld.net has named Tomas Plekanec the May Prospect of the month for his outstanding play during the regular season and in the playoffs this year. In 74 games this year, Tomas led the Bulldogs in scoring with 66 points, and he carried that through to the playoffs, where he again led the team in scoring with 7 points in 10 games. What may be most impressive about Plekanec this season is his team leading 9 game winning goals during the regular season, and his +21 was good for 2nd overall on the team, showing he scores big goals and helps keep the puck out of the net when he’s on the ice.
For his efforts this year, he was given a short look in the NHL, as he dressed for 2 games with the Habs this season, and although he didn’t register a point, he didn’t look out of place getting time on the fourth line. Plekanec should be used to being able to produce offensively, as he was the rookie of the year in the top Czech men’s league during his draft year while playing for one of the worst teams, Kladno where he picked up 18 points in 47 games. Tomas got a chance to play in two games in the Czech men’s at the age of 15, a testament to his skill and maturity.
Taken in the 3rd round, 71st overall in 2001, Plekanec could turn out to be one of Andre Savard’s better draft picks, as he has gone unnoticed for the most part, but has slowly put together back to back impressive seasons in North America, getting 112 points during those two seasons, and it seems he’s just getting started.
Also receiving consideration for prospect of the month was Michael Lambert, who had a breakout season with PEI, as he scored 42 goals and 84 points both career highs, as he led the Rocket in scoring, was named their top player and was 10th in the QMJHL in scoring. Michael was rewarded with a 3 year contract for his efforts this season, and could spend next season in Hamilton