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Mike KomisarekAmerican professional ice hockey defenseman
Date of Birth: 19.01.1982
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- College Hockey and NHL Draft
- NHL Career
- Injuries and International Representation
- Personal Life
Early Life and Career
Michael Komisarek was born in West Islip, New York, on January 19, 1982. He grew up playing hockey on Long Island before joining the New England Jr. Coyotes of the Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL). Komisarek was also involved in the USA Hockey developmental program, where he was coached by legendary Lithuanian hockey coach Alexei Nikiforov.
College Hockey and NHL Draft
After two seasons with the University of Michigan Wolverines, during which he recorded 46 points and 145 penalty minutes in 80 games, Komisarek was drafted seventh overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He played two seasons in the NCAA, appearing in two Frozen Four tournaments.
NHL Career
Komisarek made his NHL debut in the 2007-08 season, signing a two-year contract with Montreal for $3.4 million. He struggled to make an impact at first, going goalless in his first 123 games. He finally scored his first NHL goal on March 20, 2006, against the Washington Capitals and was named the game's first star.
Despite his offensive struggles, Komisarek became a fan favorite at the Bell Centre with his physical play and willingness to protect his teammates. He signed a five-year, $4.5 million per season contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs in July 2009.
Injuries and International Representation
In a matchup against the Calgary Flames on January 2, 2010, Komisarek suffered a shoulder injury. On February 3, it was announced that he would undergo season-ending surgery, which also made him ineligible to represent the United States at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
