For newest Washington Capitals prospect Lynden Lakovic, his life is hockey.
He knows it sounds cheesy, bit of a cliché, but it's true. So, when it comes down to going to the Capitals 27th overall, it's a dream come true to continue doing what he loves in D.C.
"Just being out there (is the best part)," Lakovic said, adding, "People say winning (is the best) and obviously, winning's very fun and it's a lot better than losing, but I just love being out there and just the satisfaction of getting better... I've been playing the game forever now and I'm going to continue playing because it makes me happy."
Lakvoic was relieved and a bit surprised to hear his name called by the Capitals, but he'd suspected that he could be their first-round pick, considering the positive interviews they've had over the course of the year.
"If you told me a year ago that Washington would be picking me in the first round, I probably would've laughed at you a little bit," Lakovic said. "It's been a long journey and I'm just happy to be here and go to Washington and see what I can learn and take in everything I can."
The 6-foot-4, 200-pound forward is known for his impressive shot and size, but what also goes under the radar is his playmaking ability and how he's able to create chances and space for himself and his linemates.
"I'm a big two-way dual threat scorer who plays with a lot of pace and goo dhockey IQ I think. I'm a really good scorer when I get the opportunity," Lakovic said. "I'm really good at creating space for myself and I think when I'm at my best that's what i'm doing."
In 47 games with the Moose Jaw Warriors this past season, Lakovic picked up a career-high 58 points while also taking over as the captain mid-way through the year. It was an "emotional roller coaster" of a season for him as the Warriors struggled greatly to follow up on the title they won in 2024, but it helped him take his game to an even higher level.
"I learned how to buy into a role and at the end of the day, that's what you're going to need to do to win a championship," Lakovic said. "If you're told to score goals, if you're told to be on the forecheck and play physically, you're gonna do that. if you get your whole team buying into their role, it's gonna click and you kind of have a family. I think that's'what i can carry on ito the next level."
Lakovic is looking forward to bringing his game to the District and connecting with other prospects, including constant opponents in Terik Parascak and Andrew Cristall, but most importantly, he wants to help continue to establish a winning culture in D.C.
"It's pretty crazy. They know how to win and they have a winning history," Lakovic said. "it was truly a dream come true."