Scouting Report: Lynden Lakovic
Position: Left Wing
Shoots: Left
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 190 lbs
Team: Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
Draft Year: 2025 NHL Draft Eligible
Player Overview
Lynden Lakovic is a big-bodied, high-skill winger who blends top-end finesse with raw power potential. At 6’4″, he has the frame that NHL teams are drawn to, but it’s his offensive instincts, fluid skating, and commitment to becoming a complete player that truly stand out. As he continues to mature and fill out physically, Lakovic is shaping into a modern-day power forward, one who can drive play, contribute offensively, and grow into a reliable 200-foot presence.
Offensive Skillset & Hockey IQ
Lakovic plays a skill first game, possessing smooth hands, deceptive puck control, and the ability to make plays at full speed. His creativity and confidence with the puck are clear, and his ability to operate in traffic gives him real offensive upside. He sees the ice well, processes play quickly, and rarely forces the game, traits that point to high-end hockey sense.
“I think it’s evolved a ton,” Lakovic said when I asked him how his game has grown since entering the WHL.
“When I first came into the league, I was kind of like every other skilled forward who just wants to dangle and go for the highlight reel goal… you weren’t too focused on the defensive part of the game. Just growing up and maturing, being around players going to the next level, you realize you have to grow that 200-foot game if you want to play in the NHL.”
That self-awareness and willingness to adapt are essential qualities in a high-end prospect and Lakovic is leaning into it.
Skating
For a player his size, Lakovic moves very well. He’s got long, powerful strides that allow him to build speed quickly and cover ice with ease. He plays with good pace and isn’t afraid to push the tempo off the rush. His agility and edge work continue to develop, giving him tools to become a more elusive puck carrier as he matures.
When asked to build the “perfect forward,” Lakovic’s pick for skating was clear:
“For skating I would have to go with McDavid, for obvious reasons.”
Shot & Scoring Potential
Lakovic owns a quick release and shoots with both confidence and accuracy. He’s a natural finisher when he gets time and space, and his reach allows him to change angles effectively. As he continues to get stronger and more comfortable using his body to carve out space, his goal-scoring totals could see a significant jump.
“For shot, right now I would take Matthews,” Lakovic added when building his perfect forward.
Physicality & Puck Battles
Though Lakovic plays a finesse-heavy game, he knows the next step in his evolution lies in becoming harder to play against. He’s working to leverage his 6’4” frame more consistently in board battles and net-front scenarios, an area of growth he’s very open about.
“Consistency winning puck battles, that’s a big skill if you want to play more minutes in the NHL,” he said.
“When you kind of look at me, you see all the actual skills there like the stick handling, the shooting, and the skating. Maybe the puck battles are something I lack a little bit, but it’s improving.”
That commitment to development and acknowledgment of areas to improve is a standout quality that bodes well for his NHL future.
Two-Way Game & Maturity
Lakovic’s defensive awareness has taken significant steps this season. His improved attention to detail away from the puck is a reflection of his maturing mindset and exposure to older teammates. He’s begun to play more responsibly in his own zone, supporting down low, tracking back effectively, and using his length to close passing lanes. As he continues to add muscle and refine his positioning, he could become a reliable penalty killer or shutdown presence on top of his offensive contributions.
Mindset & Intangibles
Lakovic brings more than just tools, he brings the mentality of a future pro. When asked what a team is getting if they draft him, his answer was both passionate and revealing:
“They’re getting a passionate, big, skilled forward that can skate, has good hockey IQ, and plays with a lot of pace. Is going to show up to the rink every day with passion and a positive mindset, to put in the work, be a good teammate, and push the pace at practice. That’s kind of what I do every day here.”
That kind of character, paired with his physical and offensive upside, will draw serious interest from NHL clubs.
Five-Year Vision
“My ideal, perfect five-year plan would be playing in the NHL in a top 6 role on whatever team drafts me… hopefully get a chance to win a cup.”
It’s a big dream, but one he’s building toward every day. Lakovic isn’t just chasing the NHL, he’s preparing to thrive when he gets there.
Projection
Lakovic projects as a potential top six winger with power-forward capabilities and offensive flair. If he continues to develop his physical game and round out his consistency, he has the tools to become a dangerous all-situations player at the NHL level. Scouts love his size, skill combo, and improving 200-foot play. The arrow is pointing firmly upward.