Martin Hanzal

Martin Hanzal (born February 20, 1987 in České Budějovice, Czechoslovakia) is a Czech professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Phoenix Coyotes of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Playing career
Hanzal was the Phoenix Coyotes' first round draft pick, 17th overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He played all of his junior career in the Czech Republic before playing for the Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League in the 2005–06 season. In 19 games, he had 19 points and in 5 playoff games, he had 1 goal.

Hanzal played the 2006–07 season with the Red Deer Rebels of the Western Hockey League, after being acquired from the Chilliwack Bruins before playing a game with the team. He led the Rebels in scoring with 85 points in 60 games.

In 2006 and 2007, he represented the Czech Republic at the IIHF World U20 Championship.

Hanzal made his pro debut with the Coyotes in the 2007–08 season. He finished with 8 goals and 35 points, which was good enough for sixth in team scoring. He ranked ninth among NHL rookies in both points and assists.

On December 4, 2008, Hanzal scored his first career hat trick against the Toronto Maple Leafs in only 20 minutes and 27 seconds of play time. Hanzal's hat trick also sets the record for the fastest hat trick in Coyotes history.

International play
Hanzal played his first game in the national squad in 2008, and has played 2 times for the national team (as of Jan 3 2009)

Played for the Czech Republic in:


 * 2006 World Junior Championships
 * 2007 World Junior Championships
 * 2008 World Championships