Jaakko Wycisk
#77 -Guelph Storm (OHL)
Canadian -RW/C -6’1 190lbs
Jaakko Wycisk, the “Wizard”, is a unique type of player. He has several impressive traits: IQ, Work Ethic, Physicality. He will not overwhelm with his game; those listed traits, particularly his passing and hockey sense, make him very effective. They allow him to find teammates in the slot or at the net, making passes you wouldn’t expect to reach their target. His hockey sense gets him in the best spots on the ice wherever they are at those moments. Wycisk is more a passer than a shooter, but do not leave him open near the net; he will make you pay. While not overly tall, he uses his entire frame to his advantage, making it extremely difficult for opponents to take the puck once he has hold of it or even in front of the net where he holds his ground.
Wycisk had a fantastic Hlinka Gretzky Cup, being one of the driving forces for Team Canada on their gold medal-winning roster. Capped off by an 8-1 stumping of Team USA in the finals. Wycisk finished with the tournament lead in assists and tied for the lead in points. NHL Comparison: Mark Scheifele, he may not be as offensive or as dynamic as Scheifele; however, he is more of a physical and defensive presence. If he can carry those same skills into the next level, Wycisk will be a coveted asset for whoever drafts him.
Wycisk currently projects as a mid-to-late first-round pick, which is fair in my assessment in my books. No matter the state of the NHL, players with high hockey IQ or strength and physicality will always have a role; players with both are that much more valuable.