The Vegas Golden Knights selected right winger Jakob Ihs-Wozniak with the 55th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft on Saturday at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. To acquire the pick, the Golden Knights traded the No. 58 and No. 122 picks to the Nashville Predators.
Ihs-Wozniak, born in Australia, plays for Lulea HF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). He spent most of the past season with Lulea's junior team, where he scored 23 goals and 57 points in 40 games. He also played 13 games with the main Lulea HF team in the SHL, where he recorded one goal and one assist. Additionally, he played in two playoff games with the team. Ihs-Wozniak also played for Lulea HF's U-18 Nationell team in the playoffs, where he had 14 points in eight games.
Internationally, Ihs-Wozniak has represented Sweden in numerous tournaments. He joined Team Sweden for the 2025 IIHF World U-18 Championship, where he had seven points in seven games.
At 6-foot-2 and 184 pounds, Ihs-Wozniak has good size for the NHL. He is a versatile power forward who has added a physical element to his offensive game. He possesses a strong shot, impressive hockey IQ, quick acceleration, and smooth strides. While not a perfect player, his strengths make him an exciting prospect.
According to THW Prospect Profile, Ihs-Wozniak may be one of the most underrated forwards selected in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. He has improved his physical play and offensive production, and his defensive game has also progressed. Teams will likely value his potential as an offensive producer in the NHL.
Some scouts have criticized Ihs-Wozniak for playing outside the dot lane rather than driving the middle lane on an offensive rush. His offensive decision-making has also been questioned, as he sometimes overpasses instead of making a simpler play. He would also benefit from shooting the puck more often.
Despite these criticisms, the Golden Knights are hopeful that Ihs-Wozniak can develop into a versatile, do-it-all bottom-six option.