By: Tim A Richardson | Follow Me On Twitter @TimARichardson
The Boston Bruins drafted Jakub Lauko in the third round, 77th overall in the 2018 NHL Draft. At the time of the selection, Lauko was a speedy winger with a lot of offensive ability. Those traits are still there, but he’s since developed into one of the best prospects in the Bruins system. Let’s dive into how he did this season.
After a stellar 2018-2019 season in the QMJHL, there was a ton of buzz surrounding Lauko for the 2019-2020 season. Unfortunately, that season, which was his first in the AHL, was injury-filled. In 22 games, he netted five goals while dishing out four assists for nine total points. Coming into this season, Lauko looked to break out and show that last season was a fluke. Due to the global pandemic, the young forward started the season playing on loan for HC Energie Karlovy Vary of the Czech Tipsport Extraliga. In 25 games, he netted five goals while dishing out five assists for ten total points.
After a successful stint on loan in the Czech Republic, Lauko started his 2020-2021 AHL season with a bang. In his first three games of the season, he netted one goal and dished out four assists for five total points. Then in the middle of the season, the young forward went on an insane stretch where he scored a point in seven of eight games. During that stretch, he netted three goals and dished out seven assists for ten total points. It was an extremely successful season for the Czech native. In 23 games with Providence, he netted five goals and dished out 14 assists for 19 total points. As you can see, he put that injury-filled 2019-2020 season in his rearview mirror.
Lauko’s biggest asset is his speed. The young forward uses his elite speed to power past defenders. He then can drive to the net and create a scoring chance for either himself or one of his teammates. He showed that ability over and over again this season. The biggest question remaining with Lauko is what happens next? I think he’ll push for a bottom-six winger role on this team next season. The Bruins have many questions to answer on offense before the start of next season. Lauko is one of those guys that should be in consideration for a spot. His speed would change the bottom-six and make it difficult for opposing teams to defend.
As we look to the future, Lauko looks like a player destined for Boston’s top-six for many years to come. The combination of his speed and scoring ability make him an elite choice for the top-six role. Lauko went from a third-round pick to a top prospect in just a few seasons. He’s put in a lot of hard work to get to where he is currently. He’s been such a joy to watch in Providence. You can tell when he’s on the ice; he sticks out, he seems to have that it factor. I cannot wait to see him in Boston. I hope everyone is enjoying the playoffs and their summer. Feel free to send me any questions or comments on Twitter. As always, GO, Bs, GO!
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