With the preseason winding down, teams across the NHL are trimming their rosters.
The Boston Bruins are no exception and on Thursday afternoon, they sent three players, including Jakub Lauko, to Providence. Although the young winger was a longshot to start the season in Boston, he was impressive nonetheless. With Lauko now in Providence, the Bruins will be able to see if he can compete against professional talent over the course of a full season.
The Bruins drafted Lauko in the third round of the 2018 NHL Draft. When they used the 77th overall pick on the Czech native, the Bruins saw something special in the young forward. Although speed is his best asset, Lauko also possesses a deadly shot and is willing to sacrifice his body. All of these skills were on display over the past few weeks.
In three preseason games, the Czech native had two points including one impressive goal against the Flyers.
What a goal from Jakub Lauko.
1-0 Bruins. pic.twitter.com/TdioHVGxF8
— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) September 23, 2019
Lauko showcased his offensive skills and creativity that have made him one of the organizations top prospects. For the Bruins, his performance came as no surprise, as he dazzled in training camp last year as well.
In 2018, Lauko appeared in two preseason games before being injured. Once he was healthy, the 19-year-old was assigned to the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of the Quebec Junior Hockey League. The Czech winger thrived in 44 games, as he posted 41 points. In 19 playoffs games, he continued to improve and recorded 17 points, including six goals.
Even with Lauko’s impressive offensive skill set, he will require more seasoning in the AHL to start the year. He is still learning defensive situations and how to play every night, even if he’s struggling to find the back of the net. Those are skills that he should improve on in Providence as he adjusts to the pro game.
While the Bruins have a forward group full of talent few of their prospects possessive Lauko’s raw offensive skills. If he can continue to improve, then there should be a spot waiting for him in Boston. The Bruins are constantly in a search for a top-six winger and are hoping Lauko could be that guy within the next two years.
If he can improve his game in other areas than his offense, Lauko’s time in Boston could come sooner rather than later. Although he has Anders Bjork, Karson Kuhlman, and Oskar Steen in front of him, this preseason showed a glimpse of how special Lauko can be and his bright future ahead.
