Player's Profile
- Name: Boris Valabik
- Position: D
- Shoots: Left
- Height: 6-7
- Weight: 212 lbs
- Birthdate: 1986-02-14
- Eligible for Draft: 2004
- Drafted:
- Hometown: Nitra, Slovakia
- Acquired: 1st round, 10th overall, 2004 NHL Entry Draft by Atlanta
- Playing In: Pro
Boris Valabik
Prospect Grade: 6.0 C (About Prospect Grades)
History
Valabik left Slovakia to play for the OHL Kitchener Rangers in 2003-04 so he could play the more fitting North American game and get on a more inside track to the NHL. He played for the Slovak Under 18 National Team in 2003 and 2004 and in the 2004 CHL Top Prospects game.
2004: 1st round, 10th overall, 2004 NHL Entry Draft by Atlanta
2005-06: Played for Slovakia in the 2006 WJCs.
2006-07: The 6’7 rookie blueliner returned in early February from a high ankle sprain and went on to post nine points and a +12 in 50 games, and led the team in penalty minutes with 184. The seventh defenseman on the playoff depth chart, Valabik got into eight playoff games due to a shoulder injury to Sipotz. He had one point and 37 penalty minutes in those eight games.
Talent Analysis
Don't let the birthday fool you, this guy is anything but a sweetheart. In fact, he might be the meanest European defenseman to ever come over to the OHL. He uses every inch and pound at his disposal to make life miserable for opposing forwards. He can make a good first pass and has decent shot selection, but he has no qualms about laying the stick on opponents with a lot of force. Has the potential to be one of the biggest defensemen in the NHL. Has a good slapshot, but rarely uses it.
Weaknesses include mobility, discipline, and lack of offense.
Future
Valabik projects as a stay at home defenseman with little offensive upside. Could see some time with the big club in 2008-09.
Stats
Stats Coming Soon...
Profile Last Updated: March, 6th 2008
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