LATEST | Allvin shares what he's liked about Lekkerimaki's game this season
This past summer, Vancouver Canucks prospect Jonathan Lekkerimaki decided to leave Djurgarden IF and signed with Orebro HK in order to play in the Swedish Hockey League, a move that has certainly benefited his development this season.
Coming into Saturday, Lekkerimaki has appeared in 14 games with Orebro HK where he's managed to put up 11 points (eight goals, three assists), along with eight penalty minutes and is a plus-one. His eight goals currently have him in a six-way tie for second place in the entire Swedish Hockey League, which is impressive for a 19-year-old.
Recently, Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin sat down for an interview with Swedish media outlet 'HockeyNews' and was asked about Lekkerimaki's development and how he's played so far this season.
"Above all, it was great to see him here at his second development camp this summer and witness his progress, how he asserted himself, and how he integrated with the coaches and staff.
We had Johan Hedberg here as well, who got to know Jonathan during our camp. The feedback we've received from Johan has been very positive and I think for Jonathan, it's not just about the points but the way he plays brings us even more joy. How Johan describes his defensive skills, understanding of the game, and how hard he works every day to get better. When you do these things, the points come." Allvin said.
We had Johan Hedberg here as well, who got to know Jonathan during our camp. The feedback we've received from Johan has been very positive and I think for Jonathan, it's not just about the points but the way he plays brings us even more joy. How Johan describes his defensive skills, understanding of the game, and how hard he works every day to get better. When you do these things, the points come." Allvin said.
With the way Lekkerimaki has played so far this season, it doesn't look like he's too far off from making the jump to the National Hockey League. It's unlikely that it will come next season, as the Canucks want to be slow with his development which will help in the long run, but he could be ready to play in the NHL as early as the 2025-26 season.
For now, along with focusing on his SHL club, Lekkerimaki has his sights set on representing Sweden on home ice at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, where he's expected to take on a big role and potentially be apart of the team's leadership group.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 4 | 778 ANSWERS LATEST | Allvin shares what he's liked about Lekkerimaki's game this season Do you think Lekkerimaki will make his NHL debut during the 2025-26 season? | ||
| Yes | 433 | 55.7 % |
| No, maybe in 2026-27 | 118 | 15.2 % |
| No, he will make his debut next season | 176 | 22.6 % |
| See Results | 51 | 6.6 % |
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