Matthew Lombardi
Matthew Lombardi was drafted in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft 215th overall by the Edmonton Oilers. In a rare move, he continued to play junior hockey, later re-entering the draft and being picked 90th overall by the Calgary Flames in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.
Lombardi played in the 2004 Stanley Cup playoffs, during which he suffered a vicious elbow to the head from Red Wings defenceman Derian Hatcher and was unable to play for several months. During the lock-out 2004-2005 season, he played for the Flames affiliate Lowell Lock Monsters in the American Hockey League, after he recovered fully from the elbow, returning to the NHL and the Flames when the league resumed play in 2005-06.
Lombardi's best season was his last one, in 2006-2007. He finished with 46 points including 20 goals and 26 assists.
Lombardi is best known for leading the rush up ice with his speed and finesse. He is also a very agile player, but will need to work one being more versatile and creative if he intends to put up solid consistent numbers.
|
