Kolarik only played four games with the Rangers in 2011-12 while spending much of the season with the Connecticut Whale of the AHL. The 26-year-old winger will likely get a chance to suit up with the Blueshirts to begin the season, but he faces an uphill battle in garnering any significant playing time even if he does break camp with the Rangers.
Fringe prospect scored 9-6-15 in 17 AHL games after being acquired by the Blue Jackets. He's found the net at every level, but may not get a chance to in the NHL any time soon.
Another Michigan Wolverine in the Coyotes system, Kolarik comes into 2009-2010 ranked as Phoenix's eighth best prospect according to
hockeysfuture.com. In 76 games for AHL San Antonio last season, Kolarik had 50 points (20 G, 30 A) and will move his game Las Vegas this season, after Phoenix switched affiliates this summer. Kolarik should stay down in the AHL all year, but, if he continues to improve, he could force Phoenix's hand and see some ice time with the desert dogs this year.
Kolarik had a successful career at the University of Michigan and is one of the Coyotes top prospects. In 2008, he was second among Wolverines in points with 57 and second in goals scored with 30. Again, the competition will be fierce for spots on the COyotes' roster, and if he does not make the team, he will certainly have an impact with the Coyotes' affiliate in San Antonio.
