Looking at draft prospect Jett Luchanko
With the NHL Draft coming up on June 28, the Vegas Golden Knights are searching for talent for their pipeline. Could Jett Luchanko be a good fit?
The NHL Draft is a good place for hockey fans to see the superstars of tomorrow. It's where players like Sidney Crosby and Connor Bedard made their way into the hockey sphere, forever etching their names into the annals of on-ice legends. NHL teams look for the next can't-miss prospect, hoping that player can turn around the franchise's fortunes. For Jett Luchanko, he's hoping for his moment to shine.
The star for the Guelph Storm is projected by some to be a first-round pick in this year's draft, with a broad skill set that could benefit any NHL team. Such potential could be a boon for hockey teams, especially if they develop into a top-six talent for that team. While there are players like Alexandre Daigle who don't pan out (especially when they're dating Pamela Anderson), teams are hopeful they get what they want.
That's especially true for a team like the Vegas Golden Knights, who face many questions heading into the offseason. Many of their problems lie with departing free agents, including the beloved Jonathan Marchessault and Chandler Stephenson, where their forward depth takes a massive hit. This is also something that their present pipeline can't fix due to the lack of depth. Therefore, it's time to refill and reload for the future.
Although the Golden Knights only have four picks in this season's draft, it adds more incentive to hit on these picks. Can't have a modern-day Daigle in the lineup who sets the team back five years, you know? That's why Luchanko could be the pick that keeps Vegas relevant for an additional few years. But is the center the right fit for the team?
Jett Luchanko's profile
Jett Luchanko had a solid season for the Guelph Storm in 2023-24, scoring 20 goals and 54 assists in 68 games. That comes out to 1.09 points a game, an impressive clip for a young prospect. He also helped Canada's U18 team at this year's World Junior Championships, scoring two goals and five assists in seven games. The native of London, Ontario was also a key contributor for the U16 London Jr. Knights in 2021-22, scoring 19 goals and 27 assists in 21 games.
One notable issue with Luchanko is his lack of size. He comes in at 5'11" and weighs 183 lbs., which makes him undersized in the Vegas Golden Knights lineup. There will be questions about how the forward fits into their system long-term, specifically on the defensive side. Jonathan Marchessault faced those same limitations, yet he thrived because of his offensive skill set. Therefore, it shouldn't be a problem.
Still, that might not deter some teams from picking up the native of London, Ontario. He has many skills and attributes that make him an incredible player. What good can Luchanko bring to the Golden Knights if he's selected with the 19th overall pick?
How Jett Luchanko fits with the Vegas Golden Knights
Jett Luchanko is the master of deception and hockey intelligence, fooling defenders with his various puck movements and maneuvers. Combined with an outstanding work ethic, he's proven to be a productive center who hustles for every puck and point he can get. Such a mindset is heavily rewarded in the Vegas Golden Knights organization, where competing is an absolute must.
As mentioned earlier, Marchessault made up for his lack of size with a knack for innovative offense that made him tough to defend. From his hard shot to his ability to see the ice, the "Original Misfit" carved out a niche on the Golden Knights. That's the same thing Luchanko can do for himself, using his offensive acumen to become a productive member.
While the center isn't the biggest player on the ice, he's also a faster player that can out-maneuver anybody. He's a threat on the breakaway and can use his natural athletic ability to create plays. While his puck skills still need work, that's something he can get with some exposure in the NHL.
The verdict
Prospects like Sacha Bosivert look like better fits based on their size and strength alone. They can add more to the Vegas Golden Knights and can become better long-term fits for the team. Therefore, there's a good chance Vegas could lean that way if players like Boisvert and Michael Hage are still on the board.
Still, Vegas's overall problem is prospect depth, where their pipeline is dried up. If they miss out on their targets and Jett Luchanko's still there, why not take a flier on him? His on-ice intelligence and poise make him worth a shot. The team needs as much young talent as they can get to make the landing smoother.
Overall, Luchanko looks like he might be a second-round pick that could be a steal. He has first-line potential and is a viable playmaker for anyone who takes him on. But is there a scenario where he falls to the Golden Knights either in the first round or the second? That's the big question that Vegas might face on June 28 and 29.
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