Canadiens pro prospect update

Since the last report, the Hamilton Bulldogs have been able to improve their play in all aspects, and have moved into first place in their division. The Hab prospects on the Hamilton team have been an important part of the recent success, with several players stepping up and getting on the scoresheet.

Tomas Plekanec, C — Plekanec leads all AHL Hab prospects in scoring and is just under a point per game. He has been playing on the second line with lots of power play time and some penalty kill time as well. After an impressive rookie season last year, Plekanec seems to flourish with increased icetime and a more important role on the team.

Josef Balej, RW — After not getting any action in the Habs preseason, things were not looking good for second year pro Balej, but he has been one of the better forwards all season long through the early stages of the year. Balej has been flipped between the first and second line, as he fits in well with Plekanec, but a recent move up to Gratton’s line has proved effective for the entire line as they are on a roll right now. Balej also sees time on the power play and penalty kill. Last season, injury and a deep Hamilton roster kept Balej out of action for a large part of the season, but this year he hasn’t shown any signs of rust, as the speedster has been very effective getting shots and creating offense.

Francois Beauchemin, LD — After having a career year last season, and being one of the top defensemen in the AHL, Beauchemin was looking to crack the Habs roster. But an overcrowded blueline forced him back to Hamilton, where he didn’t play his best hockey to start the season. With last year’s partner Mike Komisarek sent down, they were reunited, and Beauchemin seems to have picked up his game lately.

Chris Higgins. C/LW — The last roster cut of the Habs, Higgins made a big impression on Habs management and was even able to see some limited NHL action. Since he’s arrived, he’s been a real force for Hamilton, playing on the top lines, the power play, and the penalty kill. He has been able to create a lot of scoring chances, while being solid in his own end.

Alex Perezhogin, RW — Having never played outside of the Russian system before, and not knowing much English, Perezhogin has had some difficulty adjusting to North America. But he has shown flashes of excellence at times with his quick shot and great skating abilities. He has had some troubles along the boards and in the corners, but with time, should feel more comfortable out there. Sees time on the top lines and on the power play.

Mike Komisarek, RD — Although many were disappointed in seeing the big blueliner sent back to the AHL, Komisarek has been one of the team’s more physical players, and one of its better defensemen. He plays a good bit on all situations, but what’s impressive is that he is playing a more physical game, and is using his body more effectively. He still has some trouble reading the plays and reacting quickly.

Jonathan Ferland, RW – Ferland has not seen a lot of ice time, but when he does, he plays a physical game in the corners, and drives to the net. He is starting to get more playing time, as he becomes more comfortable. Playing on the third and fourth lines, Ferland keeps it simple and works hard every shift.

Duncan Milroy, RW — An injury kept him out of the lineup for a part of the early season, and now limited roster space has also kept him out again. In the little action he’s seen, he hasn’t been able to get on the scoresheet, but has shown a willingness to battle along the boards and in the corners. It could be a long season for him as a rookie with limited icetime.