Analyst confirms Jonathan Lekkerimaki's potential: Excellent selection for Patrik Allvin

PUBLICATION

Felip Gosselin
August 24, 2024 (8:52 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Jonathan Lekkerimaki had one of the worst drafts plus one year, and everybody was on Patrik Allvin's case for making a "terrible selection."

The tides have turned and taken a heck of a turn. Lekkerimaki took his game to the next level during the 2023-2024 campaign and showed the world what he was made of. His 2023-2024 SHL season was marked by growth and adaptation as he continued to develop his game in one of the top European leagues.

Playing for Djurg�rdens IF, Lekkerimäki demonstrated his offensive potential with improved consistency and maturity. The young Swedish forward, known for his excellent shot and scoring ability, managed to carve out a more significant role on the team, contributing both in even strength and on the power play.

Lekkerimäki's statistics reflected his development throughout the season, as he posted increased point totals compared to previous years. His performance highlighted his potential as a future top-six forward, with his speed, shot accuracy, and hockey IQ being his standout attributes.

This season was crucial for Lekkerimäki as he worked on refining the defensive aspects of his game, showing a more well-rounded skill set that could translate to NHL-level success. His season was seen as a positive step forward in his development trajectory, solidifying his reputation as one of the promising young talents in Swedish hockey.

His development appealed to many analysts' eyes, especially Steven Ellis, who currently works for the Daily Faceoff covering the prospects. Ellis stated that there was no doubt in his mind that Lekkerimaki would eventually be a top-six winger for the Canucks.

Heading into this year's training camp, it's clear that Jonathan Lekkerimaki will spend the entire next season in North America. The Swede will burn through the first year of his entry level contract, the question that remains is, will he be good enough of training camp to break through the Canucks roster?

Lekkerimaki making the Canucks roster out of camp would give Allvin some serious ammunition and possibly one of, if not the deepest forward group in terms of scoring abilities. Could you imagine a line-up of this sort for the team's home opener?

1. Hoglander - Miller - Boeser
2. Debrusk - Pettersson - Lekkerimaki
3. Joshua - Blueger - Garland
4. Heinen - Suter - Sprong / Sherwood / PDG