Sting’s Fischer following in father’s footsteps at 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game
Sarnia Sting blueliner Lukas Fischer has had the ultimate role model his entire life, and this week in Moncton he’ll enjoy another experience in the footsteps of his father as he competes in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.
Lukas is the son of former NHL defenceman Jiri Fischer, who was awarded the 1999 QMJHL Defenceman of the Year Award and later secured a Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002. Jiri Fischer participated in 1998 CHL Top Prospects Game at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto before being drafted 25th overall by the Red Wings at the season’s conclusion.
“My dad actually sent me pictures of what it looked like when he played in the game, with the jerseys and what all the equipment was like,” said Lukas. “He said the only difference back then is that it was seen more as an all-star game in his personal experience, compared to now it’s a bit more competitive for all of us.”
During Jiri Fischer’s six seasons in the National Hockey League, Lukas had the opportunity to observe his father’s professional journey firsthand as they split their time between Michigan and his father’s hometown in the Czech Republic. With Jiri now dedicating his time to the Red Wings’ front office as their Director of Player Personnel, Lukas has been fortunate to receive guidance and mentorship throughout his own journey.
Lukas Fischer opens the scoring 🚨
The #NHLDraft prospect's power-play marker gets the party started for the @StingHockey in Mississauga 📽️ pic.twitter.com/xHszrKCCEU
— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) January 14, 2024
“My dad has helped me out a ton, right from the beginning even teaching me how to skate. I got to grow up coming to CHL games and I was always fascinated by the crowds for young players. With my dad choosing to play in the CHL and seeing how well it worked out for him, I wanted to give it the same shot.”
Currently holding a “B” rating from NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft, the 17-year-old Brighton, Mich. native has continued to impress with 20 points (4-16-20) in 44 appearances this season, building on a successful rookie campaign that helped the Sting reach the Western Conference Final last year.
“Last year was really special. To be a part of that team was an honour. I wasn’t fully aware of how good we were going to be when I initially got to Sarnia, but as the team grew together it became clear that we were all going to play really well together.”
Selected in the 11th round, 208th overall in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Lukas reflects on his journey into the League, and his decision to develop in Sarnia.
“I remember not being sure if I was going to be drafted, because being from the States I had told most of the teams I was thinking of going to school. So you know, my dad called me and he said that he told them not to take me with an early pick, but that someone will probably take a chance on me. I’m lucky enough that it ended up being Sarnia. The second I got a phone call from our General Manager, Dylan Seca, it just felt right.”
Fischer is one of 19 OHL players selected to compete in the 2024 Top Prospects Game that airs live in Canada from the Avenir Centre on TSN, TSN.ca, the TSN App, RDS and RDS.ca on Wednesday starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT. Meanwhile, in the United States, the game will air live on NHL Network, while viewers outside of Canada can catch all the action on CHL TV.
The OHL has announced our very own Lukas Fischer as the West Division Academic Player of the Month for October!
Lukas is currently achieving high grades in Math, English, Earth Science, Health & Nutrition and Chemistry 🧪
Congratulations!@HockleyVResort | #StrengthInNumbers pic.twitter.com/eILsdNkNsY
— Sarnia Sting (@StingHockey) November 1, 2023