Daily Archives: April 5, 2013

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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