This is the first in a series looking at some of the top prospects for the Dallas Stars. First up is right wing Matej Stransky, who led the Saskatoon Blades of the Western Hockey League in scoring this past season.
Stransky, a sixth round pick (165th overall) in 2011, led the Blades in goals (39), assists (42) and points (81) in 70 games played. Those offensive numbers were more than triple what he put up the previous season – his first in North America – when he had 26 points (14 goals, 12 assists) in 71 games for Saskatoon.
“Of all the players in our organization, he took the biggest step in improvement this year,” said Les Jackson, Dallas Stars Director of Player Personnel. “He really had a strong season in the Western League.”
Stransky, an 18-year-old from the Czech Republic, finished 15th in the WHL in goal scoring and tied for 19th in points. His 14 power play goals, which led his team, were tied for 15th in the league.
The 6-3, 201 pound forward, who has a good skill set, had two points (one goal, one assist) in four playoff games as Saskatoon was swept out of the first round of the playoffs.
The Stars signed Stransky to a three-year entry-level contract in early April. The skilled forward, who is a right shot, is expected to play in the WHL again next season.
“He’s a big kid with really good hands and good instincts. We need to work on a few things with him developmentally, but that’s pretty normal for a kid his age,” said Jackson. “He’s in a good place and he’s made some good strides. He’s an impressive player.”
Matej Stransky
Background on Dallas Stars prospect Matej Stransky.