Mike Komisarek: Ready For Action?

Picture Source: www.stratfordbeaconherald.com

In 2001, Mike Komisarek was drafted 7th overall by the Montreal Canadiens.  After playing with the Canadiens for 6 seasons Komisarek was snatched up by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2009.  Komisarek played for 4 seasons with the Maple Leafs.  Komisarek injured his shoulder in 2010 and required season ending surgery.  Many believe he had not fully recovered from this injury.  Komisarek's contract was bought out in 2013 by the Leafs and he became a free agent.  On July 5th, 2013, Mike Komisarek signed with the Carolina Hurricanes for a 1 year $700,000 deal.

Komisarek is a 6 foot 4 inch, 243 pound, defensive defenseman.  In his 10 years, 519 games career in the NHL he has; 14 goals, 63 assists, 77 points, -15, 665 PIM, and 346 hits.

Komisarek was a good signing considering it's only a 1 year deal, and for only $700,000.  Expectations for the 31 year old American defenseman are not outrageous.  The beauty of this deal is that, if things don't work out it's 1 year.  In my opinion this is the perfect scenario for Komisarek to shine.  The only stay at home defenseman we have is Tim Gleason, and now Komisarek.  He also has the veteran factor.  With the young defenseman we have, veteran leadership is all the more important.  His size will also be a huge advantage for the Canes, as long as he uses it.  The Canes have been looking for a defenseman that's not afraid to clear out the trash in front of the net and block shots.  I hope that Komisarek plays with a chip on his shoulder and a jump in his step.  I want to see the Mike Komisarek that was drafted 7th overall.  I know a lot of the Canes fans wanted to see them make a run at some of the big name defenseman out there.  Well with big names, come big salaries.  Salaries which we can't afford.  With this deal I hope there is low risk with high reward.

Only time will tell if Rutherford made a great decision, or whether its time to go back to the drawing board.  I personally can't wait for preseason and regular season to see #5 on the ice.  While we wait, here are some clips of Mike Komisarek.