Mike Komisarek, a defenseman known for his physical style of play, spent over a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 19, 1982, in West Islip, New York, Komisarek honed his skills at the University of Michigan, where he played college hockey for the Wolverines. His performance at the collegiate level caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Montreal Canadiens as the seventh overall pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.
Komisarek made his NHL debut with the Canadiens during the 2002-2003 season. Over the next few years, he established himself as a reliable presence on the blue line, known for his shot-blocking ability and willingness to engage in physical battles. His defensive prowess was complemented by his leadership qualities, earning him the role of alternate captain for the Canadiens.
The 2005-2006 season marked a turning point in Komisarek's career as he began to see increased ice time and responsibility. He played a crucial role in the Canadiens' defensive unit, often paired with Andrei Markov, and became a fan favorite in Montreal for his hard-hitting style. During the 2007-2008 season, Komisarek's performance peaked, and he was selected to represent the Eastern Conference at the NHL All-Star Game.
In 2009, Komisarek signed a five-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, a move that brought high expectations. However, his time in Toronto was marred by injuries, which limited his ability to consistently perform at the level he had demonstrated in Montreal. Despite these challenges, Komisarek continued to be a physical presence on the ice, contributing to the team's defensive efforts.
After being placed on waivers by the Maple Leafs in 2013, Komisarek was acquired by the Carolina Hurricanes. He played one season with the Hurricanes, where he provided veteran leadership and experience to a young defensive corps. Following the 2013-2014 season, Komisarek announced his retirement from professional hockey.
Throughout his NHL career, Komisarek was known for his defensive skills and physicality.
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