A towering right-shot defenseman, at 6-foot-6, 198 pounds, Radim Mrtka would fit quite nicely in the Montreal Canadiens' plans. In his meeting with TVA Sports’ Anthony Martineau, the prospect stated that he had spoken to people from the organization throughout the year and met them at the combine. He feels the Habs’ brass doesn’t think he’ll be available at number 16, but they would like him to be.

Given that the Central Scouting Final rankings of North American skaters place him in fifth place, he may not be available when and if Montreal speaks. Looking at the various mock drafts, however, TSN's Bob McKenzie has him at number 12, Craig Button at number 9, THN’s Tony Ferrari at 13, and Ryan Kennedy at 14. With his blend of size and skills, that’s hardly surprising.

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A late birthday, the blueliner will only turn 18 on Monday, but the Czech native did cross the ocean to play with the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL. In 43 games, he’s put up 35 points, adding another three in six playoff games.

While tall defensemen sometimes need time to sort out their skating and mobility, Mrtka is already well-set in that department; he moves well and has the hockey IQ necessary to make an impact at both ends of the ice.

The youngster adapted surprisingly well to playing in North America, becoming an integral member of the Thunderbirds and logging over 25 minutes of ice time per night in the WHL. Sportsnet’s Sam Costello explains:

“Has adjusted seamlessly to play in North America despite fits and starts just after his arrival. The blend of size, skating, and puck-moving ability in a right-shot defenceman is extremely rare.”

Costello has an excellent point there, which is why it seems very likely he won’t be available at the Canadiens’ selection rank. However, if the Habs were to move up in the draft to select someone, Mrtka could be a good option.

Photo credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

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