Photo Credit: Our very own Vasili Gianarakos
The Flyers went off board a bit and drafted Jett Luchanko with the 13th overall pick, after trading the 12th pick at the draft. Some were thinking and scratching their heads…who??? While replaying Michael Buffer “Let’s get ready to rumble.” It’s my fault, I didn’t talk about Luchanko more, so Flyers fans could get to know him a bit.
Luchanko turned 17 on August 21, 2006. He stands at 5’11 and weighs in at 187lbs, according to Mark Scheig of the Hockey Writer’s who attended the Scouting Combine. This is somewhat of a raw build for a pro hockey player and gives him a bit of room should he want to add strength this Summer. Luchanko, is a native of London, ON, CAN, and fans could get their first opportunity to see him at Developmental Camp on Tuesday, “The way he plays, the way he works. He’s a complete player first of all. He’s very young still,” said Flyers’ General Manager Danny Briere. “What he did and how he got better and better as the season went on. We feel that ‘yes, he’s a center.’ We feel he’s just starting to tap his potential. We’re really excited about him.”
Now more on the player in Luchanko. The Flyers ended up coming away with the guy they wanted all along, per Danny Briere. Luchanko was one guy the Flyers wanted, and had eyes for as Briere noted to our very own Vasili Gianarakos after the first round was complete. They loved his shot, hands, size, and more importantly his skating abilities. Moreover, they love what he can turn into, as they feel he is just scratching the surface.
Luchanko has a high motor, and can turn the jets on when he wants to. He has a high-end hockey IQ, which cannot be taught. His vision of the ice is impeccable. Luchanko needs to get bigger and stronger to withstand the rigors of an 82 game season, but that will come in time. He’s 1-2 years from being an impact player with the Flyers organization.
“Jett’s a player we are really excited about. A centerman who brings speed, very smart and very detailed at both ends of the rink. As he gets stronger, he’s going to be more and more dynamic. We’re really excited about his potential.” said Brent Flahr, Vice President and Assistant General Manager.
Flahr continues, “He can play in every situation, whether it’s in Guelph or Team Canada. He’s a leader. Coaches rave about him on both teams. We just think it’s the tip of the iceberg with him. He’s a player that we highly coveted.”
This young man can score too, it’s not just about his skating abilities. Yes he’s an elite skater, but he has good hands too. He netted 20 goals last season, so he has the knack for the net a bit.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling to be selected by the Flyers. Unbelievable feeling,” Jett Luchanko said after being drafted by the Flyers. “I’m excited to be a Flyer and glad to be a part of this historic franchise.”
“I’m excited to be a Flyer and glad to be a part of this historic franchise.” – Jett Luchanko
Let’s see how this pick turns out for the Flyers, let’s give this kid a chance. I know some fans might be a little disappointed, but let’s see what this young man can do, maybe he surprises some people.
