[Ziggy Lidstrom]

I really like this pick. Mind you I have been on record stating the flames needed size and skill combos.

I feel like Honzie is that. He skates really Well considering his size. Lots of good comments about his edge work. I saw quite a few highlights of him taking the puck to the net with authority. He has nice soft hands in tight. His puck possession seems really strong. He adjusted to the smaller ice quite successfully until that freak injury. He seems to have good iq to add to his tool kit both offensively and defensively. Prorating his stats and he out produces a bunch of players. I see why Connie was so excited.

He needs some more development for sure but he has tools and has skills. Decent pick for our range. Which amateur doesn’t need more development though? I think this guy will play at 220 with good edges and soft hands. That, at 6’4 is tantalizing. His puck protection at that size would be elite which this team has struggled with over the years. Johnny had it until teams would jump him on that button hook inside the zone. Hopefully Honzie can be developed at center. He needs to increase his motor but that can be addressed hopefully. He could be a rantanen like player for us. And at 6’4 he could still be growing. Lots to like with this pick.

I can’t believe there were so few trades in this first round. No move ups nor move backs.