Jake Walman

Jake Walman is a mobile, puck-moving defenseman who brings a strong blend of skating ability, offensive instincts, and developing defensive reliability. A left-shot blueliner with good size and excellent agility, Walman has grown into a trusted top-four role by leaning into his strengths—namely, quick transitions, crisp breakout passes, and a heavy, accurate shot from the point.

Offensively, Walman plays with confidence. He’s at his best when joining the rush or activating from the blue line to keep plays alive. His skating is a standout trait, allowing him to create separation in the neutral zone and recover quickly if a play breaks down. He’s also capable of quarterbacking a second power-play unit, with the vision to move the puck effectively and the shot to create rebound opportunities or beat goalies clean from distance.

Defensively, Walman has taken noticeable steps forward in recent seasons. While he isn’t overly physical, he uses smart stick work and positioning to break up plays and keep opponents to the outside. His skating helps him close gaps quickly and recover if caught up ice. As he’s gained more experience, he’s become more poised in his own zone and better at handling pressure against top competition.

Walman isn’t a flashy name, but he’s a dependable, modern defenseman who fits well in a pace-driven system. With his combination of speed, puck skills, and growing confidence, he continues to prove he can handle big minutes and contribute on both sides of the puck.