Jiri Karafiat

Aaron Vickers

Karafiat is a strong, two-way forward who contributes in all aspects of the game. He’s not overly big, but he is feisty, and plays his man very tough. His defensive zone work both five-onfive and on the penalty kill is exceptional. He positions himself well, and takes away lanes with his stick work and his willingness to engage physically. Karafiat has an awkward skating stride, but he gets where he’s going in a hurry. He needs to work on his crossovers, but the one aspect of his skating game that is well polished is his ability to accelerate. He isn’t the most talented player, but he has the hockey sense that could make him a very effective player. Karafiat is also tenacious on the forecheck, never giving up on a loose puck. He displays some offensive talent, but in saying that, he is highly unpolished. He can over-stickhandle the puck and try to be too fancy when he should play a simpler style of game. He does have an accurate shot, but it doesn’t come off his stick at a high velocity. He has very good vision of the ice, and is able to find his teammates even when he is under pressure. He also dishes very accurate passes. Karafiat puts on his hard hat and goes to work every shift. He’s energetic and always trying to get involved in the play. He has the potential to be player who could blossom in the North American game and shows some great potential to eventually become a bottom-line NHL center with some good offensive skills.  (May 2016)