Just a few seasons ago (2009-2010) as a member of the Florida Panthers, Michael Frolik recorded his second 21 goal campaign in only his second NHL season. Not too shabby for the former first round pick of the Panthers who selected him 10th overall in 2006. After two consecutive seasons of compiling 43 and 45 points, Frolik was at least consistent, but seemed to always leave you wanting more. His goal scoring was streaky as many natural goal scorers can be, but his scoring droughts were frustrating since it seemed that he was a skilled player with potential to hit 30 if he ever found his stride. He skated well, used his speed to create scoring chances, but often times was thwarted by his shot selection. There were many a wrist shot that went directly into the crest of an opposing goaltender, causing Frolik to become frustrated.
During the 2010-2011 season Frolik played 52 games for the Florida Panthers scoring only eight times and adding 21 assists for a team that was to say the least, awful. It was the final season of Peter DeBoer behind the bench, and it was the first season of Dale Tallon’s blueprint in action. Frolik became one of the first “housecleaning” moves that Tallon made as he send the young winger, and goaltending prospect Alexander Salak to the Chicago Blackhawks for Jack Skille, Hugh Jessiman and David Pacan. Many wondered if the Panthers had given up too early on Frolik, and if not, did they get enough back in return. While the jury may still be out on that, Frolik who is completing his third season in the Windy City has found a way to keep himself in the lineup by changing his game, and adapting to his role. Which lately has seen him wear many hats. Frolik’s versatility was discussed yesterday in an article by Tracey Meyers, as she points out how important he’s become as the team’s utility man.
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For a player who’s not scoring all that much, his hard work ethic and energetic skating has won the heart of Joel Quenneville and many Blackhawks fans. He has shown flashes of brilliance as the above video shows, however it’s been his ability to accept a smaller role that has made him a key piece to the Blackhawks success, especially this season. Playing mostly on the fourth line, and also being one of the team’s most consistent penalty killers, Frolik has also played on the top line with Jonathan Toews, and last night played on the second line with Dave Bolland and Patrick Kane. Prior to last night’s game Frolik had four points in his past five games, and was making the most of his extra ice time.
When both Patrick Sharp and Marian Hossa went down with injuries, it was Frolik whom coach Q turned to for help, and in his first game on the top line with Jonathan Toews, the speedy Frolik didn’t disappoint as he scored twice and added one assist against the Los Angeles Kings. The last time that Frolik scored before that night was on opening night January 19th, also against the Kings 23 games prior.
Obviously I’ve seen almost every game that Frolik has played as a Hawk, as well as a Panther, and while he’s still frustrating at times, as long as you don’t expect too much, you won’t be disappointed. He’s no longer that potential 20-25 goal per year player, but he’s become someone that can fill a roll anywhere, and not embarrass his team, or himself. It’s reasonable to say as well that while his statistics don’t show his true value for what he contributes, he’s making the most of his chances, and has been a perfect fit for the role(s) he’s been given.
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