One of the big storylines heading into the 2024-25 season revolves around Vancouver Canucks top prospect Jonathan Lekkerimäki. The reigning SHL Rookie of the Year has made the transition to North America, and while he has a chance to start the year in the NHL, the 20-year-old winger will most likely be sent to the AHL before opening night. While expectations surrounding Lekkerimäki are high, starting the season with the Abbotsford Canucks could be what’s best for his long-term development.
While Lekkerimäki was successful as a 19-year-old in the SHL, scoring 19 goals and adding 12 assists in 46 games, that doesn’t necessarily translate to automatic production at the NHL level. Not only will Lekkerimäki have to adjust to the North American ice surface, but he will also have to play a different style of game compared to the SHL. That being said, his short six-game stint with Abbotsford last season was encouraging, as Lekkerimäki was able to generate offensive chances while also scoring his first career AHL goal.
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Even if Lekkerimäki has a strong showing during training camp and the preseason, the AHL would still arguably be the best place for him to at least start the season. Based on the Canucks current roster, it is hard to picture the Swedish winger getting the minutes and opportunities he needs to reach his full potential. In contrast, if sent to Abbotsford, Lekkerimäki would automatically be in the team’s top six while also getting plenty of opportunities on the power play.
On top of additional playing time, working with the Canucks development staff on a daily basis is another advantage to starting Lekkerimäki in the AHL. There are arguably no better teachers for a young Swedish forward than Daniel and Henrik Sedin, who know what it takes to be a high draft pick, move to North America and thrive in a Canadian market. Whether it is the Sedins or Manny Malhotra, who was also a top-ten pick, the amount of knowledge and experience in the AHL should help guide Lekkerimäki through the ups and downs of his first pro season in North America.
“Very exciting. A lot of training. It’s going to be fun to play some games.”
🗣 Jonathan…