Luke Gazdic

History

2006-07: In his rookie season with the Otters, Gazdic scored 13 points on five goals in 58 games played. The Toronto, ON native is known for his tough physical play. Registering 137 penalty minutes this year, Gazdic has shown that he is not afraid to go into the corners and do whatever is needed to get the puck.

2007-08: Gazdic continued his trademarked physical ways for Erie (OHL) this season, finishing second on the club in penalty minutes with 144.  He also developed a little bit of a shot and some offensive ability, scoring 17 goals in 67 games placed him fifth on the Otters.

2008-09: Gazdic played in 63 games with the Erie Otters(OHL), scoring 20 goals and adding 10 assists to go with his 127 PIMs. Gazdic went pointless through 5 playoff games. He also made his pro debut scoring 1 goal in 2 games with the Idaho Steelheads(ECHL).

2009-10: Gazdic played in 49 games with the Texas Stars(AHL), scoring 3 goals and picking up 1 assist. He also picked up 155 PIMs. He also spent time with the Idaho Steelheads(ECHL), scoring 1 goal and adding 1 assist in 4 games.

2010-11: After recovering from shoulder surgery last season, Gazdic returned to play 72 games and posted nine goals and 17 points with 110 minutes spent in the sin bin.  Gazdic is making some progress in his overall game, as opposed to just his pugilistic skills.  His skating has improved a bit and he’s getting used to “good” physicality instead of “extraneous” physicality.  He still has a limited skill set, but his tenacity earned him some playoff games this year over some more skilled players on the Texas roster.

2011-12: Gazdic eclipsed the 100 penalty minute mark for Dallas AHL affiliate Texas for the third straight season. With fellow heavyweight Mathieu Tousignant out of the lineup for much of the year, Gazdic led Texas with 102 penalty minutes while skating in all 76 games for the Stars. He chipped in offensively, scoring 11 goals with 12 assists, and was minus-22 on a Stars team that missed the AHL playoffs; finishing last in the West Division.

Talent Analysis

Gazdic is best known for his fisticuffs.  He’s a big, physical player that won’t back down from anyone.  He has a strong work ethic and will go to war in the corners.  He has limited potential and limited talent, although he has an intriguing shot that might pocket him a stray goal here and there at the next level.  Might have a more convincing case for an NHL job if he polishes up his defensive play to avoid being considered “just a fighter.”

Potential: Fourth line grinder and enforcer.

Future

Will likely remain with the Texas Stars.