Can Jackson LaCombe break out into a star?

Among all of the Ducks current defenseman, the one that has the longest staying power on the team is likely Jackson LaCombe.

The defenseman will be entering his third season in Anaheim after being drafted by the team in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft. LaCombe played 71 games in his rookie season, recording two goals, 15 assists and 129 blocks.  

This past season, LaCombe stepped up his play and had a very impressive season on both ends of the ice, recording 14 goals, 29 assists and 69 hits. His increase in offensive production saw him tied at No. 11 for most goals scored by a defenseman.

Growing up and during his time at the University of Denver, LaCombe was praised for his speed, acceleration and puck-movement. At 24-years-old as well, LaCombe still has a lot of time to grow into his full potential, which could see him as one of the NHL’s best setup defenseman. 

LaCombe projects to be a first-line defenseman alongside Radko Gudas, a longtime veteran who ranks No. 8 all time in hits. If Gudas’ physicality rubs off on LaCombe, he will not only increase his offensive output, but also his defensive instincts and ability. 

LaCombe alongside linemate Radko Gudas (Stephen Brashear)

LaCombe has all the tools to turn into one of the best young defensemen in the league, and with a much more developed Ducks roster that is in win-now mode, LaCombe could see the first playoff minutes of his short career thus far. He has the potential to be a 60+ points a year player, he just needs to make it happen. 

References:

HockeyReference.com

DailyFaceoff.com

EliteProspects.com

NHL.com. Skater Records - Most Hits, Career. https://records.nhl.com/records/skater-records/real-time-since-2005-06/most-hits-career

QuantHockey.com. NHL Defensemen Scoring Leaders 2024-2025. https://www.quanthockey.com/nhl/seasons/nhl-defensemen-stats.html