Thunderbirds nab a flyer in Mojzis

Corresponding with Seattle Thunderbirds GM Russ Farwell about Tomas Mojzis, the 8th round selection by Toronto in the 2001 Entry Draft, the first thing that sticks out according to him is the fact that the Czech is a “good, mobile, skater in all areas” of the game. He rates him as “very good” both in pivot and lateral movement, which gives you some idea as to what piqued the interest of Toronto scouts in the first place. There is more to Mojzis’ game that wheels though. Farwell also likes his offense stating that “his basic hand skills are good, (he) gets the puck through (when he shoots and he) makes the play (when he passes).” He also credits the youngster with showing “good patience” and having what he calls a “good panic point” when under pressure.

However, like all prospects, there are places where he could improve. While the GM rates his physical play in front of the net and in the corners as “good” he also concedes that “all young players need strength.” At 6’1″ and 192 pounds, Mojzis is not small by any means but there are many players of that height in the NHL packing 15 or 20 more pounds on their frames. Further, Farwell admits that “sometimes (he) might try to do too much” but is quick to point out that Tomas “is a hard worker who is very serious and takes direction.”

The T-Birds’ Boss feels that his new blueliner “skates well enough to play in the NHL (and that) his skill would allow him to be a fifth (defenseman) and maybe play in the top four after a few years in the league.” That said, he also cautions that Mojzis “needs to play simple and let his skating affect the game.” In short, it sounds like while the young Czech has all of the physical attributes he needs to succeed at the NHL level, it looks like he still needs to fine tune the mental aspects of his game. With his attitude and work ethic, don’t bet against him.