NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition - Jett Luchanko

Philadelphia Flyers prospect Jett Luchanko is a name to watch in the coming years. This young center, hailing from London, Ontario, Canada, has spent the past two seasons honing his skills with the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Despite being on the younger side at just 17 years old, Luchanko has already made significant strides, particularly in the past season, establishing himself as a top NHL prospect.

Luchanko's performance with the Guelph Storm has certainly been impressive. This past season, he notched 74 points in 68 games, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. His point production and on-ice presence have caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, highlighting his potential as a future NHL star. Given his age, Luchanko's achievements are even more notable, as many players are typically already 18 years old by the time they are drafted.

With another season likely ahead of him in Guelph, barring any major surprises at the Flyers' camp this September, Luchanko has the opportunity to further develop his game. The Flyers, hopeful that their recent first-round pick Matvei Michkov will become a superstar, are also looking forward to seeing Luchanko's continued growth. While Michkov may have higher projections, Flyers fans are eager to see Luchanko emerge as a top-two centerman for the team.

The young forward’s choice of hockey equipment has some intriguing details. He predominantly uses CCM gear, a common choice among OHL players due to the league's partnership with the brand. This also includes his JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick, which he was seen using both during the season with the Guelph Storm and at Flyers' development camp. His helmet, gloves, and pants are also CCM, aligning with the OHL's standardized equipment.

However, Luchanko's skates are where his preferences stand out. Unlike many young players who eagerly adopt the latest gear, Luchanko has stuck with his Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic skates. Introduced a handful of years ago, these skates are not the newest model on the market, making his choice somewhat unusual for a prospect of his age. Most young players are quick to try new models, but Luchanko's decision to stay with the Ultrasonic skates indicates a level of comfort and performance he values highly.

This unique choice aligns him with a small group of NHL players who also prefer older skate models, including notable names like Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers and Chris Kreider of the New York Rangers. Whether Luchanko will continue to use these skates as he progresses to the NHL remains to be seen, but his dedication to this equipment highlights his focus on what works best for him.

As Luchanko continues his journey, the hockey world will be watching closely. His potential to develop into a key player for the Flyers is evident, and his progress in the OHL will be crucial in determining his future role in the NHL. While most fans and analysts will be tracking his scoring stats and overall performance, equipment enthusiasts will be equally interested in whether he continues to lace up his trusted Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic skates.

In conclusion, Jett Luchanko represents a blend of youthful talent and a unique approach to his gear choices. As he aims to make his mark in the NHL, his journey will undoubtedly be followed with great interest by both Flyers fans and hockey enthusiasts alike.

Photo Credit: Chris Tanouye