Jett Luchanko

Undersized centre, who through early February leads Guelph with 53 points, and 53 points in 48 games, 27 power-play points and 1.11 points-per game, and leads the Ontario Hockey League with 24 power-play assists. He also has won 50.2 percent of face-offs (459-for-914). Took part in the CHL prospects testing and  finished first overall after 10 on-ice categories during the Top Prospects Game testing on Jan. 23. Luchanko placed first in reaction with puck, and second in transition ability with puck, and also had one assist in the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game the next day. A high pace player with a superior work ethic, great wheels and a terrific mitts to score and make plays at full speed.  Intimidates defenders with it, forcing them back off the blue line in his zone entries. He is a force and when he gets the puck on his stick, he immediately attacks the defense, and is always in the middle of the action. Draws defenses to him, and then finds his teammates in the space he just opened. A slick passer, who isn't big, but not shy about playing a physical game, using his frame on the wall and in the front. Will continue to get stronger. Projects as a player similar to Nick Suzuki, a centre-forward you can eventually play up and down a NHL clubs line up based on his speed, up-temp pace, excellent vision and a playmaker's hands. Displays superb acceleration, and fits as a second line pro centre, because he is an excellent forechecker, gets his stick down in the passing lanes, and make really nice set ups when he doesn't take the shot himself. In the World Junior Under-18 Tournament, he took all the key face-offs in one-goal games. also a terrific penalty killer who show nice anticipation and quick strike transition when he negates power play looks. More than a set up guy, he draws penalties and gets attention because of his skates and hands.

                                                             --Bill Płaczek--