Kellan Lain

History

2012-13: Kellan Lain finished his junior season with 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 32 games. He led the Lakers with 111 penalty minutes. He missed six games in late Oct./early Nov. due to a groin injury. He also missed the Feb. 2 game at Bowling Green due to a game disqualification (which carries an automatic one-game suspension) for hitting from behind in the previous night’s game (also against Bowling Green).

 

Talent Analysis

At 6’6”, Lain obviously has size. And he has used his size; strength and long reach very effectively in protecting the puck, stripping pucks from opponents and creating space for his teammates. One area where Lain really excelled this season was on face-offs, where he won 313 of the draws that he took. Lain is also a tough body to move, whether standing in front of the net or along the walls. He has great net-front presence and many of his goals this season have come on rebounds and tip-ins. He has shown a willingness to pay a price in front of the net too. Lain is a tough competitor that brings a physical element to his game. He can deliver some bone-jarring hits and is strong on the forecheck.

The greatest improvement in Lain’s development has been in his skating. His strides are now smoother and more powerful. He has added speed and is more agile on his skates. In addition, his feet have vastly improved as well. Lain does an excellent job of following and staying with plays, which has been further enhanced by his great stick work. He is defensively responsible, does a good job of killing penalties and is willing to block shots. While Lain saw time on Lake Superior State’s penalty killing unit this season, where he was even more dangerous was on the Lakers power play. Five of Lain’s eight goals have come on the man-advantage. Lain possesses hard, powerful shot and can get pucks to the net.

 

Future

Signed by the Canucks as a free agent on March 16th, 2013.