Jacob Kvasnicka (RW, R, 5’11”, 170, NTDP U18, 08/10/2007, Minnesota)
Jacob Kvasnicka is a high-motor, explosive-skating right wing with a strong work ethic and straight-line speed that consistently stands out. While undersized relative to NHL benchmarks, he plays with effort and tenacity in all three zones and shows an ability to create separation through his skating mechanics, quickness and speed. During 2024/25 in 27 USHL games, Kvasnicka produced 5 goals and 9 assists in a limited role with the U18 NTDP while averaging 14:56 TOI per game, including time on both special teams (1:21 PP, 1:03 PK). He finished the season drawing more penalties than he took (0.22 PEA/game), reflective of his pace and compete level.
Statistically, Kvasnicka excels at creating scoring chances relative to his puck touches, averaging 1.83 Grade A scoring opportunities per game on just 2.8 shot attempts, with a 13% conversion rate. His takeaway (2.8) and puck recovery (1.51) metrics are solid for a bottom-six projection. However, limitations in puck battle strength (43% win rate), passing efficiency (81%), and overall puck security (5.4 giveaways/game) raise red flags regarding his ability to execute consistently at higher levels.
Why Kvasnicka Should Be Drafted
1) Elite North-South Speed and Motor
Kvasnicka is among the fastest skaters in the USHL and consistently uses his feet to pressure defenders, win races, and separate or close in transition. He pushes pace every shift and can beat defenders wide or create entries with dynamic speed.
2) Forecheck Disruptor and Defensive Energy
He’s a tenacious forechecker and penalty killer who closes quickly on puck carriers, tracks well on the backcheck, and defends with his feet. His 2.8 takeaways per game and strong retrieval habits make him a disruptive presence in all three zones.
3) High Compete Level and Coachable Traits
Kvasnicka plays with consistent energy and doesn’t fade late in games or when getting limited ice time. He finishes his checks (1.24 H+/game), blocks shots (0.61/game), and plays to his identity. He is regarded as a coachable, team-first player who adjusts his game to stay involved.
4) Room to Grow Physically
He has an athletic frame and hasn’t filled out yet. At 170 lbs, he plays heavier than his weight suggests, and with added strength, will take on a more physically assertive style and improve his puck battle effectiveness.
Why Kvasnicka May Not Be Drafted
1) Inconsistent Execution with the Puck
Kvasnicka’s 81% pass completion rate and 5.4 giveaways per game reflect below-average puck skills and decision-making for a potential bottom-six National League forward. He frequently over-skates potential passing lanes or forces low-percentage plays.
2) Lacks Offensive Creativity and Vision
He averages just 0.3 pre-shot passes per game — limited vision and offensive zone awareness. While he can beat defenders with speed, he doesn’t consistently create for others or manipulate defenders to open space.
3) Undersized Without a Defined Offensive Role
At 5’11”, 170 lbs, and with limited offensive ceiling, Kvasnicka projects more as a defensive line / match-up winger. Without the physical presence or puck control to drive a line, he will need to clearly define himself as a bottom-six energy and PK role player.
4) Reliance on Pace Over Poise
He often plays at one speed, and while his motor is a strength, he needs to learn how to control pace and better utilize time and space. At times, his speed works against him when he rushes decisions or fails to process options.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Bottom-six NHL winger; energy/PK role.
Development Track: Three seasons in NCAA to adjust to older competition and add muscle mass, followed by 2–3 AHL seasons to improve role specific skills, physical strength, and overall decision-making pace.
Draft Range: 6th–7th Round
Verdict: Kvasnicka is a developmental late-round pick whose speed, energy, and defensive value give him a legitimate chance to play NHL games in a fourth-line role penalty killing role. His pace and competitiveness are NHL-caliber, but he must improve puck management, offensive poise, and physical strength to solidify a bottom-six utility role at the professional level. His value to an NHL organization would increase dramatically if he could be trusted to take face-offs.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images