Photo via Matej Tomek Facebook Page
This is a prospect profile that goes a little off the board.
In the recent weeks, the series has mainly featured first round prospects that will likely be taken sometime on June 26 or in the early second-round of June 27.
But the next prospect in our series isn't meant to be a high pick.
There are two reasons for this selection. First off, it's the only goaltender we will be profiling. Secondly, he's been linked to the Flyers in several mock drafts.
Here is a profile of Topeka RoadRunners goalie Matej Tomek.
Standing at 6'3" and weighing 181 pounds, this Slovakian goaltender just completed his first North American season with excellent results. Tomek appeared in 33 games in the NAHL, posting a 1.83 GAA and .928 save percentage. In seven playoff games, he registered a 3.20 GAA and .876 save percentage.
Still, for his first season after traveling from overseas, the numbers are impressive.
Tomek has great size for a goalie and the ability to cover most of the net well. He doesn't get rattled easily and recovers well on rebounds. He has good rebound control and his quickness is a very noticeable trait.
His anticipation really sets him apart. In the past season, Tomek went from being a possible draft pick to being among the top goalies in the draft, even possibly the best.
This is a very low-risk, high-reward kind of pick. He's got the potential to be a number one goalie while being selected with a mid-round pick.
The list of positives is essentially a mile long. He's everything you'd want in a goalie and his only flaws are some mild work needed on rebounds and to build on his frame. With a few years needed before he'd be expected in the NHL, he could easily improve in those areas.
And there's one more reason he could be a target for the Flyers. Currently, Tomek is committed to play next season at the University of North Dakota. I think the Flyers know someone with a connection there.
Kevin Durso is managing editor for Flyerdelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Kevin_Durso.
