NHL Prospect Profile: Jakub Lauko

Statistics

Scout Quotes

Lauko is a strong defensive player. He brings his high compete level to the defensive end, working on the boards, and supporting the defence down low. His big frame and long stick help him to cut down passing lanes and keep opponents to the outside. He needs a bit more strength to defend bigger forwards in the cycle game, but he works hard and his positioning is strong. That strength should come in time, and its common for teenagers to need to add that to their frame. – Last Word on Hockey

AJ’s Thoughts

This is one of my favorite non first round players in this year’s draft. He’s a speedy winger with great work ethic who simply works his tail off and finds a lot of ways impact games. He’s not likely in line for a future as a prolific scorer and I think ultimately where he lands will be based on how much offense teams believe they will get out of him in the NHL. I see him more as a high-end third line guy on a good team that can contribute to both the PK and PP units while also being a solid locker room presence.

He’s a guy who scouts wanted to see a lot more effort coming into the year and he certainly delivered on that part of his game in a big way. He dedicated himself to making a difference every night and even if he’s not scoring, which was often the case for him as a teenager saddled as a role player in the top Czech league this past year, he’s contributing defensively and making plays in transition.

While his skating is one of his best attributes, there’s still plenty of room for growth there as his edgework can be greatly improved to give him better balance, especially in more physical battles along the walls.

Highlights

Avalanche Fit

His skating is a great fit for Colorado and his size and position would be a boon to the organization as well. He’s a guy with real upside and even if his offense doesn’t ever come around to a high level, he’s going to find his way to the NHL as a player who can contribute in multiple areas of the game. That versatility is something teams are going to love so I’m not sure if he makes it all the way down to picks 47 or 58 but if he does, he’d be a very good fit in Colorado. Some services (as you’ll see below) view him as more of a third round guy. If that’s the case, even better for Colorado.

Rankings

#64 Future Considerations
#83 McKeen’s Hockey