Jonathan Lekkerimaki is poised to bring fresh energy to the Vancouver Canucks lineup as he steps onto the NHL stage. With a development journey marked by challenges and resilience, Lekkerimaki has worked hard to earn his place. Like Owen Tippett, whom I selected during my tenure as the scouting director for the Florida Panthers, Lekkerimaki’s journey has had ups and downs. His growth shows that true potential takes time, and his hard work is paying off as he gets ready for his NHL debut.
Lekkerimaki’s Standout Achievements in the 2023-24 Season
The 2023-24 season was pivotal for Lekkerimaki, filled with notable accomplishments that underscore his talent:
- Most Goals by a Junior in the SHL (19 goals)
- SHL Rookie of the Year
- Most Valuable Player in the World Junior Championship (WJC)
- 7 goals and a silver medal at the WJC
Lekkerimaki’s Primary Skill Set
Lekkerimaki is a significant power-play threat, especially with his powerful shot from the weak-side flank. His release is deceptively quick, catching goalies off guard with speed and accuracy. His combination of speed and strength gives him an edge in puck battles and makes him a dangerous finisher close to the net.
Defensive Zone and Areas for Improvement
While Lekkerimaki shines offensively, he’s working on defensive commitment. In the NHL, coaches expect consistency on both ends of the ice, and Lekkerimaki is focused on improving his defensive positioning. There’s room for growth here, and with experience, his defense should develop.
Projected Role and Impact on the Canucks
In his first seven AHL games this season, Lekkerimaki recorded 5 goals and 2 assists with an average ice time of 18:17 minutes per game. His powerful shot and accurate finishing make him a goal-scoring threat, though improved shot accuracy will elevate his performance. Projected as a second-line NHL forward, Lekkerimaki brings a scoring punch that Canucks fans can look forward to, especially as he takes the ice for his debut against the Calgary Flames.
