Snagging a jack-of-all-trades prospect is the way to go in the mid-to-late rounds of any draft, and Steve Yzerman did that in Round 4 when he took Michal Svrcek. Svrcek's light years from playing alongside the Detroit Red Wings big club, if he ever gets there. But if he does, his solid skill-set is what you want in a future lower-liner.
Svrcek was a point-per-game player in Sweden's J20 last year, ending with 14 goals and 30 points in 30 contests. He showed up on the international stage and played a good game, showing us that he's got a blend of scoring and playmaking prowess.
Even if that's not ultimately his forte once he reaches North American shores, Svrcek's still got value. His compact frame can pack a punch, so if he brings a physical edge to the system, that might be his gateway to ultimately wearing a Winged Wheel.
Michal Svrcek has no elite attributes, but it shouldn't discount him from the NHL
Five years down the road, maybe he'll land a skill or two that'll evolve into something above world class. But a player who's versatile enough to play center and winger, and has a motor that never stops running, brings value.
This, paired with Svrcek's smaller build, makes him deceptive. It makes me think he'll bring a gritty approach and make a living in the lower leagues as a grinder before getting the ultimate call-up and chance to show what he can offer in the NHL.
There's also a chance he could be a pest, and that role brings more value than you'd think, especially near the playoffs. So, if you're following prospects playing internationally, physical, high-energy play that'll get on an opponent's nerves is what you'll want to watch for with Svrcek this season and beyond.
As for where you can find him? Svrcek looks set playing in either J20 or the SHL. If I were to guess, expect him to split time early before ultimately moving up and playing full-time for Brynas IF's big club, whom he saw action with in 17 games last season, putting up a goal and three points.
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