Vladimir Sobotka using call up to showcase his skills

After a strong showing in training camp, many thought that Vladimir Sobotka deserved to make the NHL roster out of camp. Sobotka was vocally displeased with the Bruins' decision to have him start the year in Providence, but made the best of his time with the Baby-B's, recording 10 points in 6 games (6-4-10) while he waited for the call from the big club. That call came just over a week and a half ago when the Marc Savard went down with a broken foot.

Since being called up, the 22 year old Czech forward has appeared in 6 games and has shown he is willing to put in a solid every night. Sobotka has also shown that he is not afraid to take the body: In 6 games, Sobotka has recorded 20 hits (3.3 hits per game). Despite only playing in less than half of the Bruins games this season, he ranks third on the team in hits (behind Zdeno Chara and Steve Begin).

Sobotka has clicked well with linemate Blake Wheeler, who both had a goal and an assist in Saturday's 2-0 win over the Edmonton Oilers. After Saturday's win over Edmonton head coach Claude Julien had some good things to say about Sobotka's play:

"Vladdy is starting to find his game again with us that we saw a few years ago and liked. He is more in your face type of player. In doing that he is still capable of making some good plays, doing the right things, and scoring goals."