Jakub Lauko Bio
Jakub Lauko is a Czech professional ice hockey center who currently plays for HC Dynamo Pardubice of the Czech Extraliga. Born on March 28, 2000, in Prague, Czech Republic, Lauko began his professional career in 2016 and has since established himself as a versatile forward in both North American and European hockey. The Boston Bruins selected him 77th overall in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, and he has since played for several organizations including the Minnesota Wild. Lauko is known for his agility on the ice and has made significant contributions at both the junior and professional levels.
Early Life and Background
Jakub Lauko was born and raised in Prague, Czech Republic. Coming from a family with partial Ukrainian heritage through his grandmother, who was originally from Lviv, Lauko developed an early passion for hockey in the Czech Republic’s strong hockey culture. His upbringing in Prague provided him with access to quality training facilities and youth hockey programs that helped shape his development as a player.
Lauko grew up during a period when Czech hockey was producing numerous talented players for international competition, which inspired his own ambitions. His natural athletic abilities and dedication to the sport became apparent during his formative years, setting the foundation for his future career.
Path to Professional Hockey
Before entering professional hockey, Lauko honed his skills in the Czech youth system. He played two seasons with Piráti Chomutov of the Czech Extraliga, which served as his initial platform for developing professional-level experience. His performance with Chomutov demonstrated his potential as a future NHL prospect, catching the attention of scouts from North American teams.
Following his strong showing in the Czech Extraliga, Lauko was selected by the Boston Bruins in the third round, 77th overall, during the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. This selection marked his official entry into the NHL pipeline and set the stage for his transition to North American hockey.
Jakub Lauko Career
Rouyn-Noranda Huskies and Junior Success (2018–2019)
After being drafted by the Bruins, Lauko joined the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League for the 2018–19 season. In 44 games with the Huskies, he recorded 41 points, showcasing his offensive capabilities at the junior level. His contributions proved valuable as the team pursued championship glory.
The Huskies had a remarkable postseason run, defeating the Halifax Mooseheads in four games to capture the President’s Cup. Lauko added 13 points in 19 playoff games during this championship run. The team then advanced to the Memorial Cup tournament, where Lauko delivered an exceptional performance. He led the entire tournament in scoring with eight points in five games, helping the Huskies capture the prestigious national championship.
Providence Bruins and Early Development (2019–2022)
Lauko joined the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League for the 2019–20 season to continue his development within the Boston organization. However, his season was interrupted on December 7, 2019, when he was stretchered off the ice during a game against the Utica Comets. After checking Comets forward Justin Bailey, Lauko collapsed to the ice. Despite the frightening moment, he was able to give a thumbs-up to reassure teammates and fans as he exited the game. He finished the season with nine points in 22 games.
On August 17, 2020, the Bruins loaned Lauko to HC Energie Karlovy Vary of the Czech Extraliga until the start of the delayed 2020–21 North American season. This loan allowed him to continue playing professionally while gaining valuable ice time. He returned to Providence for the shortened North American season, playing 23 games and totaling 19 points.
Boston Bruins Breakthrough (2022–2024)
The 2022–23 season marked Lauko’s long-awaited opportunity at the NHL level with the Boston Bruins. He made his NHL debut on October 12, 2022, against the Washington Capitals. Lauko registered his first NHL point with an assist to a goal by Nick Foligno, developing a close bond with the veteran player whom he affectionately calls “Uncle Nick.”
After having a goal called back against the Arizona Coyotes due to goalie interference, Lauko scored his first official NHL goal on November 1, 2022, against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Throughout the season, he split time between the NHL club and the Providence Bruins, demonstrating his ability to contribute at the highest level. In 23 NHL games during his rookie season, Lauko recorded four goals and three assists.
On July 5, 2023, Lauko signed a two-year contract worth $787,500 average annual value with the Bruins, with the first year being a two-way deal. This contract reflected the organization’s confidence in his potential as a developing player.
Minnesota Wild and Return to Boston (2024–2025)
On June 29, 2024, Lauko’s career with the Bruins came to an end when he was traded along with a fourth-round selection in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Vinni Lettieri and a 2024 fourth-round selection. This trade provided Lauko with a fresh start within the Western Conference.
However, his tenure with Minnesota was short-lived. On March 6, 2025, the Bruins reacquired Lauko, bringing him back to the organization that originally drafted him. The trade also included Marat Khusnutdinov and a 2026 sixth-round draft pick in exchange for Justin Brazeau. Lauko finished the remainder of the season with Boston, posting two goals and five points in 18 appearances. The Bruins missed the playoffs for the first time in nine years during his return.
HC Dynamo Pardubice Era (2025–Present)
Following the 2024–25 season, Lauko became a free agent after the Bruins did not tender him a qualifying offer. Opting to return to his home country, he signed a three-year contract with HC Dynamo Pardubice of the Czech Extraliga on August 1, 2025. This move marked a significant chapter as Lauko brought his NHL experience back to Czech hockey, joining the club where he had played earlier in his career.
Playing Style and Strengths
Lauko plays as a forward and shoots left-handed. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated good agility and puck-handling abilities that allow him to contribute offensively. His versatility has enabled him to adapt to different leagues and roles, from junior hockey in the QMJHL to professional play in the AHL and NHL. His ability to contribute in various situations has made him a valuable asset throughout his career.
Notable Achievements
Lauko’s most notable achievement remains his performance during the 2019 Memorial Cup, where he led the tournament in scoring and helped the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies capture the national championship. In NHL competition, his first goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins marked a significant milestone in his professional career. His journey from Czech youth hockey to the NHL and back to the Czech Extraliga represents a comprehensive development path.
Jakub Lauko Career Statistics
Throughout his career, Lauko has accumulated experience across multiple leagues including the Czech Extraliga, QMJHL, AHL, and NHL. His time in the QMJHL yielded a President’s Cup championship and Memorial Cup victory with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. At the NHL level, he appeared in 41 games with the Boston Bruins across two stints, recording nine points. His European career includes appearances with HC Energie Karlovy Vary and his current team, HC Dynamo Pardubice.
Major Championships
The 2018–19 season stands as a defining period in Lauko’s career. Winning both the President’s Cup and Memorial Cup with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest junior hockey stage. Leading the Memorial Cup tournament in scoring with eight points in five games highlighted his offensive capabilities during crucial championship moments.
International Experience
As a representative of the Czech Republic national team, Lauko has had the opportunity to compete internationally. His heritage includes partial Ukrainian descent through his grandmother, who was from Lviv, connecting him to both Czech and Ukrainian hockey cultures.
Jakub Lauko Family
Family Background
Lauko comes from a Czech family with international roots. His grandmother originated from Lviv, Ukraine, giving Jakub partial Ukrainian heritage. This connection to Ukrainian culture has been part of his personal background throughout his life.
Personal Life
Off the ice, Lauko has maintained a presence on social media, where he connects with fans through his Instagram account. His relationships within hockey, particularly his bond with Nick Foligno in Boston, have shown his ability to build connections with veteran players. The nickname “Uncle Nick” for Foligno demonstrates the positive relationships he developed during his time with the Bruins organization.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a significant transition for Lauko as he begins a new chapter with HC Dynamo Pardubice in the Czech Extraliga. After his NHL career concluded with the Boston Bruins, returning to his home country represents both a homecoming and a new opportunity to showcase his abilities in European hockey. His three-year contract with Pardubice indicates the organization’s belief in his potential contributions.
Lauko brings valuable North American experience to Pardubice, having developed his game across the QMJHL, AHL, and NHL. His familiarity with high-pressure situations and championship-level play from his Memorial Cup run should provide leadership qualities for the Czech club. The move allows him to compete regularly without the travel demands of North American hockey.
The outlook for Lauko’s tenure with HC Dynamo Pardubice appears promising as he adapts to the European game. His skills developed in North American leagues could translate well to the Czech Extraliga style of play. Fans and analysts will be watching to see how quickly he establishes himself as a key contributor for his hometown-connected team in the 2025 season and beyond.