Jasper Inkinen (C, L, 5’10”, 168, Lukko U18, 02/14/2007)
Jasper Inkinen has emerged as a highly productive offensive player at the U18 level this season, leading his team in goals (25), assists (38), and points (63) across 39 games. His 14-point lead over the next closest teammate and clear separation in both goals and assists underline his ability to drive offense consistently and elevate the play of those around him. Inkinen has proven to be an effective, creative, and opportunistic forward when playing at his own age level. However, when evaluating his draft stock relative to peers, it must be noted that most top 2025-eligible Finnish prospects have already advanced to U20 or professional Liiga roles. Inkinen’s dominance at U18 suggests strong skill and hockey sense, but raises questions about his overall physical and pace readiness compared to others projected as top picks.
Why Inkinen Should Be Drafted
1) Elite Production at Age Level
Inkinen dominated U18 competition across all offensive categories, showcasing the ability to both create and finish plays. H can think on his feet and it looks like the game has slowed down for him. He is not reliant on a single offensive tool — he can adapt his game based on what is presented.
2) Offensive Catalyst and Team Driver
Inkinen dominantly led his team in all offensive categories — he isn’t riding on the success of others; he learned to lead and drive the offense himself. He identifies scoring chances quickly, shows good hands in tight spaces, and understands how to create offense off the rush or from extended zone time.
3) Strong Hockey IQ and Vision
Although he is playing against defenders who are not as advanced Inkinen’s assist totals and pre-shot passes (1.88 psp/game) highlight high end playmaking instincts. He anticipates plays, finds teammates through layers, and plays with a heads-up style that allows him to create in transition and in-zone.
4) Good Size and Frame to Build On
At 6’0″, 179 pounds, he has a projectable frame that, with proper strength and physical development, can fit in line with NCAA/AHL/NHL progression averages. He won’t have to overcome major physical disadvantages as he advances.
Why Inkinen May Not Be Drafted (or Drafted Late)
1) Level of Competition
Inkinen’s success came entirely at the U18 level. In Finland, elite 2025 draft prospects typically spend much of their draft year in U20 or professional leagues. Dominating younger, less physically developed players is expected for high-end talents — and while Inkinen dominated, he has not yet shown he can translate that success to higher levels.
2) Skating Pace and Physical Readiness Unproven
There is little evidence on how well Inkinen handles game pace, pressure, or physicality against older, stronger competition. At the NHL draft level, this creates risk, as teams project players who have been tested at higher speeds and under pro or pro-like conditions.
3) Defensive Awareness
His defensive details and two-way play still need significant refinement. While playing this year he was able to cheat to the offensive side of the play, but was still able to recover without giving up Grade A scoring opportunities. At lower levels he played a more defensive role — the question is will he be able to bring those habits to a higher level while keeping his newfound offensive game?
4) Still Early in His Physical Maturation
Inkinen is still adding strength and explosiveness. Without seeing growth in these areas over the next few seasons, he will struggle to generate space and time at higher levels, limiting his projection as a top-six forward.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Middle-six scoring winger at peak, possible power play contributor
Development Track: Will need 2 years of U20 then 2+ years of NCAA experience before meaningful North American hockey will be played in the AHL
Draft Range: 5th-6th Round
Verdict: Inkinen should be considered a late-round project pick for a team willing to invest in skill and offensive instincts. He dominated at his level and shows promising hockey sense, but without seeing him against faster, stronger competition, there is real uncertainty about his NHL projection. Selecting Inkinen would be a bet on future growth, physical development, and offensive intelligence, knowing it may take three to four years of seasoning before a clear pro path emerges.