Marek Schwarz

History

1st round (17th overall), 2004

2005-06: Schwarz only made 15 appearances with Sparta Prague, but was solid during that limited time. His win/loss record was a mediocre 7-8, but his .920 save percentage was quite good. He played with the Czech Republic at the 2006 World Juniors.

2006-07: Schwarz made his North American pro debut, skating in 34 games with the AHL’s Peoria Rivermen. He started off the season strongly, scoring a number of wins in the early months of the season, which earned him a spot in the mid-season All-Star Game. His play was a little more average in the latter portion of the season, but still quite respectable. Schwarz only allowed more than three goals against on a few occasions, and recorded one shutout. In December he was called up to St. Louis and played his first NHL game, a 3-2 defeat.

2007-08: Schwarz was all over this season, backstopping St. Louis and its two affiliates. In two games with the Blues, the net-minder was credited with a loss, finishing with less than stellar numbers. In 33 games with the Peoria Rivermen (AHL), Schwarz went 14-14-0 with a 2.79 goals against average and a .891 save percentage. He was moved once again, appearing in six games, all wins, with the Alaska Aces (ECHL). He also went 5-2-0 in the postseason with Alaska, finishing with a 3.21 GAA and a .911 save percentage.

Talent Analysis

The young goaltender employs a butterfly style of goaltending, using his 6’0 frame and long legs to take up much of the net. He is strong technically, plays his angles well, and utilizes a speedy glove hand. One area that Schwarz needs to continue working on is his ability to play the puck when roaming outside of the crease.