NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Michael Spacek

Get to Know Michael Spacek

Date of Birth: 4/9/1997
Place of Birth: Marianske Lazne, CZE
Ht: 5’11” Wt: 187 lbs
Shoots: Right
Position: Center
Team: HC Dynamo Pardubice (Czech Republic’s highest league)

Statistics

What Scouts See

Dobber Sports:

Spacek plays a strong all-around player and is more of a play maker than he is a goal scorer, capitalizing on incredible vision. Spacek has already suited up at a U20 WJC this year as well as played for two U18 Czechs squads, where he posted a point-per-game both times. In the Czech league, Spacek spent this year primarily in the men’s league but he also played it the U20 league and played for his clubs’ U18 team in the playoffs, posting six points in four games.

He needs to add some physical strength to really be considered a premier skilled talent in this draft.

Bill Placzek:

Already displays strong all round game in the Czech elite league but lacks prototypical size. Displays excellent vision, hands and puck control. Can receive hard passes and also sharp soft saucer passes. Forechecks and supports in the defensive zone. A top offensive prospect with scoring touch and passing skills. His head always up and those great hands make it appear the puck is following him around all three zones.

He is maybe 5 foot ten at this point and that may be the only negative teams will find in his game.

Highlights

NHL Potential

Spacek’s experience in Czech’s top league and his ability to produce offense make him a potential top-six forward if he’s able to overcome his small stature and adjust accordingly to North American ice.

Expected Draft Position

Rankings for Spacek have him as high as 36 from Corey Pronman to only being listed as an Honorable Mention on Bob McKenzie’s Top 75 list, making him a potential draft pick anywhere from the second round to the fourth round, with the third round making the most sense as his final landing spot.

How Prospect Fits in Avalanche Organization

Spacek is an interesting fit in the Avalanche organization. Personally, I don’t see it as a good fit, especially in the second-third round range Spacek is likely to be selected. He’s a redundant player in terms of size, position, and ability to a few other players already in the organization.

Were Spacek to slide to the fourth round, his offensive upside likely becomes very tantalizing and difficult for the Avalanche to pass up. Should the Avs select him then, his upside would certainly justify the selection despite being a redundant talent.