Paul Szczechura

Paul Szczechura (pronounced “sha-HER-ah”) could be a “hidden gem” in this year’s NHL draft. Overlooked by many followers of the draft, he is a player that is definitely well worth checking out. The Brantford, Ontario native and former player under the tutelage of Walter Gretzky finished third on the Broncos team in scoring with 29 points (6 goals, 23 assists) playing in all 37 games for Western Michigan this season. His 23 assists ranked second on the team. At the team’s season-ending awards ceremony, Szczechura was named the recipient of Western Michigan’s Catherine Lawson Sportsmanship Award.

2007-08: Szczechura split time between two AHL clubs this season, centering for both the Iowa Stars and the Norfolk Admirals. 29 games with the Stars didn’t amount to much, as he struggled to put up points; he recorded just five points (2g+3a) with Iowa. After the trade to Norfolk, things seemed to click for the forward. In 24 games he recorded 26 points (14g+12a) while keeping his PIM to a low 16.  Signed as an undrafted free agent by Tampa Bay in 2008.