Observations:

March 2015 – Although sidelined with a concussion, Korbinian Holzer was traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Anaheim Ducks for Eric Brewer and a 5th round pick. Brendan Ross

February 2015 – After being recalled in late November, Holzer has acclimated himself well as a regular for the Leafs. He struggled a bit in the past with speed, but has been handling that aspect much better this do around with a stronger frame and positioning. With recent injuries, he has once again found himself as the responsible side to the team’s top pairing, this time with Cody Franson. I would not expect him to stay a top pairing defender, should be a stable top 4. Holzer and veteran Stephane Robidas are the only defenders on the Leafs that have a better than negative rating, which doesn’t say much other than they do not hurt you to hold. He is still working on his offensive game and has a four game point streak prior to Christmas, but he will be lucky to ever reach 20 points for a complete season in the NHL. Low double digits is the expectation. He currently averages three hits per game, and almost a trio of blocked shots every pair games. It has been mentioned he is a candidate to be dealt as a depth player near the deadline, the organization has a few others mentioned before that bring similar skill sets closing in on the NHL. Jason Banks

March 2014 – The current campaign has been bittersweet for the German defender. After a poor showing in training camp, he had a lifeless start to the Marlies season with only five points and a negative 6 rating in 21 games. As of late he has chipped in with 10 points, positive 12 rating and 36 penalty minutes in his last 15 games. He has quietly had his strongest North American season but due to lack of injuries on the Maple Leafs blueline, no one has been summoned all season. Early on Holzer seemed disengaged with the game with lack of passion and feistiness I’ve become accustom too over the years, he still hasn’t been playing with the same chip on his shoulder, but he seems like he has taken a step forward with effort and putting heart into his play. His contract is currently a one-way pact that carries through next season, but he needs to re-establish himself in next fall camp as an NHL defender otherwise the outlook will be extremely grim for him. The organization’s other ‘defensive first’ prospects are threatening to displace Holzer, Petter Granberg, Andrew MacWilliam and Tom Nilsson all provide the responsibility he brings. Jason Banks

March 2013 – After starting the season as a ‘taxi’ player, Holzer is probably in the NHL to stay and is playing top minutes with Dion Phaneuf. He is quickly becoming a Leaf fan favorite with fellow former Marlie teammate Mark Fraser and was rewarded with a shiny new two-year contract that is one-way. The smooth-skating defenseman is mostly being utilized to allow Phaneuf more roaming ability, but Holzer himself has shown an ability to jump in the rush himself on his second career goal. Phaneuf’s irresponsible play is the major reason for Holzer’s minus-five rating, but his 40 blocks, 44 hits and 19 penalty minutes in 18 games show his stud status as a roto defensive backliner. Jason Banks

January 2013 – Holzer is a large, extremely nasty customer to play against on the back end who never plays a game in a ‘good’ mood. Over the past three years, he has been the Marlies' most reliable defenseman, logging large minutes against the best lines in the AHL and playing in key situations. Holzer is the type of player that will jump in front of slap shots for his goaltender and clear multiple bodies from the slot without being polite. He also has a knack for giving solid hits along the boards or in open ice as his skating is well above average. (Think of Johnny Boychuk with less offence) With the lockout ending, it is very likely Holzer will find himself with the Leafs as a cheap, bottom pairing or reserve defenseman or as a ‘taxi’ player for recall. Currently, he has a broken toe in his foot due to a recent shot block and only missed one game before returning to action. Jason Banks

Fantasy Outlook: C-

Holzer will not contribute much offensively, but for leagues that include hits, blocked shots, penalty minutes and +/-, he will be valuable once he gains a regular roster spot.

Footage:

Holzer lays out Ryan Stoa and then fights Mike Brennan.

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Holzer shows his smooth skating jumping in on a rush.

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First NHL goal on a nice low bullet from the point.

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Holzer lines up and drops David Krejci, one of many in his future.

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