Observations:

March 2013 – After starting the season as a ‘taxi’ player, Holzer is probably in the NHL to stay and is playing top minutes with Dion Phaneuf. He is quickly becoming a Leaf fan favorite with fellow former Marlie teammate Mark Fraser and was rewarded with a shiny new two-year contract that is one-way. The smooth-skating defenseman is mostly being utilized to allow Phaneuf more roaming ability, but Holzer himself has shown an ability to jump in the rush himself on his second career goal. Phaneuf’s irresponsible play is the major reason for Holzer’s minus-five rating, but his 40 blocks, 44 hits and 19 penalty minutes in 18 games show his stud status as a roto defensive backliner. Jason Banks

January 2013 – Holzer is a large, extremely nasty customer to play against on the back end who never plays a game in a ‘good’ mood. Over the past three years, he has been the Marlies' most reliable defenseman, logging large minutes against the best lines in the AHL and playing in key situations. Holzer is the type of player that will jump in front of slap shots for his goaltender and clear multiple bodies from the slot without being polite. He also has a knack for giving solid hits along the boards or in open ice as his skating is well above average. (Think of Johnny Boychuk with less offence) With the lockout ending, it is very likely Holzer will find himself with the Leafs as a cheap, bottom pairing or reserve defenseman or as a ‘taxi’ player for recall. Currently, he has a broken toe in his foot due to a recent shot block and only missed one game before returning to action.

Fantasy Outlook: C-

Holzer will not contribute much offensively, but for leagues that include hits, blocked shots, penalty minutes and +/-, he will be valuable once he gains a regular roster spot and has a very bright future as a shutdown defensemen.

Footage:

Holzer lays out Ryan Stoa and then fights Mike Brennan.

Holzer shows his smooth skating jumping in on a rush.

First NHL goal on a nice low bullet from the point.

Holzer lines up and drops David Krejci, one of many in his future.

Fantasy Prospects Report Notes (Any FPR's released in the last 18 months will not be listed here):

Buy the latest Fantasy Prospects Report here.

Korbinian Holzer statistics courtesy of Elite Prospects

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed