Rick Tocchet lists the three players that impressed him most
The Canucks' young stars classic ended with a three-game sweep, and fair to say that management has been pleased with the way the prospects have handled themselves.
Canucks pleased: Rick Tocchet sets his eyes on three players
After watching the games, Tocchet revealed that the three players had caught his eye. Allvin and Tocchet named, without surprise, Jonathan Lekkerimaki, Elias Prospect Pettersson, and Vilmer Alriksson as the players who retained the most attention from the coaching staff.
Three players to cause a surprise in training camp?
It was already expected that Jonathan Lekkerimaki, the team's 1st Round Pick in 2022, would come out swinging at the training camp. Lekkerimaki showed up big time and put on a clinic. His whole skillset was on display, from his wicked shot to his puckhandling and playmaking skills or his speed; he showcased them all and built a case to contend for a spot on Rick Tocchet's squad.
Vilmer Alriksson, a 19-year-old Swedish prospect for the Vancouver Canucks, showed promise during the 2023 Young Stars Classic. Standing at 6'6», Alriksson utilized his size effectively, displaying solid physical play along the boards and contributing to puck battles. While he didn't find the scoresheet often, his work ethic and defensive awareness were noticeable throughout the tournament.
Alriksson's skating and positioning were highlights, improving his overall game. Though still raw offensively, his performance hinted at potential as a reliable two-way forward in the future, earning him attention as a player to watch in the Canucks' system.
This is turning out to be a steal for a fourth-round draft selection.
Elias Pettersson, the Vancouver Canucks' 2022 third-round pick, impressed at the 2023 Young Stars Classic with his poised, mature play on the blue line. The 19-year-old defenseman, not to be confused with the Canucks' star forward of the same name, showcased his strong skating and hockey IQ throughout the tournament.
Pettersson excelled in breaking up plays defensively and transitioning the puck with precision. Though more of a defensive defenseman, he contributed offensively with smart passes and solid puck movement. His calmness under pressure and overall maturity stood out, marking him as a promising prospect in the Canucks' system.
It'll be interesting to see how they meddle with the real squad, now that they've made it clear they've outgrown the Young Star Classic, it's time they show where they belong. Whether it's with the big guns in Vancouver, and even if it means going to Abbotsford to perfect their craft.
| POLL | ||
Who has the best chance of being the training camp's surprise in your opinion? | ||
| Jonathan Lekkerimaki | 110 | 57.6 % |
| Vilmer Alriksson | 21 | 11 % |
| D-Pettey | 46 | 24.1 % |
| None | 14 | 7.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
