Mike Komisarek has signed a one year deal with the Habs. The rugged defenceman should be a big part of the club in the upcoming year, with some pegging him as a top four defenceman already.
The 6’4″ blueliner made big strides with the Habs against Boston in the 2003-04 playoffs, but missed the majority of the season in the AHL last year to hip surgery. He returned during the latter half of the year to post 5 points (1G, 4A), 40 PIM and a +6 in 20 games with the Bulldogs.
To date, the former Michigan Wolverine has played 67 NHL games. Expect him to play at least that many in the upcoming season. As well, Komisarek is yet to score in the NHL, another statistic that he should take care of in 2005-06. Komisarek’s contributions extend beyond stats, though.
The bottom line is, Mike Komisarek is much more than your average big-bodied defenceman. He shoots the puck hard and skates very well, not to mention his willingness to throw the body at anyone. As long as he does not take himself too far out of the play to dish out a huge hit, Komisarek’s mean streak will be more than welcome on the blueline.
As the year moves along and he gains confidence, look out.
Bob Gainey made a third signing on the day, inking netminder Jaroslav Halak to a deal. Halak won 24 games in the QMJHL last year with Lewiston. Standing 5’11”, the 20-year-old looks to be a pleasant surprise for a late round pick.
He could play in Hamilton next year, especially if Yann Danis is in Montreal backing up Jose Theodore for a couple of months. Halak’s deal is for three years.