Jonathan Lekkerimaki, the Vancouver Canucks' top prospect, is currently showcasing his talent and potential with the Abbotsford Canucks, the team's AHL affiliate. His recent performances, particularly during the Abbotsford Canucks' Calder Cup run, are reaffirming why the organization holds him in such high regard and giving Canucks fans a glimpse into the future.
Selected 15th overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Lekkerimaki's journey hasn't been without its challenges. A difficult draft-plus-one season saw him battling injuries and struggling to find consistency. However, the young Swede has rebounded impressively, demonstrating the offensive prowess that made him a highly touted prospect.
In the current AHL season, Lekkerimaki has been a key offensive contributor for Abbotsford. Despite missing games due to injury and a stint with the NHL club, he has consistently found the back of the net, leading the team in goals for a significant portion of the season. His scoring touch, combined with his improving all-around game, has solidified his status as a premier goal-scoring prospect. As of late February 2025, he had 17 goals and 25 points in 29 games with Abbotsford, a performance that placed him among the top-scoring AHL rookies, despite playing fewer games than his counterparts.
Lekkerimaki's skills are readily apparent when he's on the ice. He possesses an exceptional shot, capable of beating AHL goaltenders with regularity. While the NHL presents a higher level of goaltending talent, his shot remains a valuable asset that has caught the attention of the Canucks' management. Beyond his shot, Lekkerimaki's speed and skating ability allow him to generate scoring opportunities on the rush and evade opposing defenders.
Game 4 of the Calder Cup was a prime example of Lekkerimaki's potential impact. He scored two goals, including the game-winner, in a crucial victory for Abbotsford. His early goal set the tone for the game, putting the Charlotte Checkers on their heels, and his third-period tally ultimately secured the win.
While Lekkerimaki has had multiple recalls to the Vancouver Canucks throughout the 2024-25 season, his time in Abbotsford has been crucial for his development. In the AHL, he receives top-line minutes and plays a significant role in all offensive situations, allowing him to hone his skills and gain confidence. This contrasts with the limited role he often plays in the NHL, where he typically sees bottom-six minutes.
The Canucks' management is carefully managing Lekkerimaki's development, ensuring he receives the necessary ice time and opportunities to reach his full potential. A key decision earlier in the year saw Lekkerimaki reassigned to Abbotsford to gear up for the AHL playoffs. This move also ensured that he would retain his rookie eligibility for the 2025-26 NHL season and remain eligible for the Calder Trophy.
Looking ahead, Lekkerimaki is expected to compete for a full-time role with the Vancouver Canucks in the 2025-26 season. His offensive skills, combined with his improving physical game and work ethic, make him a promising prospect with top-six potential. While he has historically been labeled a perimeter player, he has shown a willingness to go to the "dirty areas" and has expanded his offensive repertoire to include goals scored from various areas of the ice.
As Lekkerimaki continues to develop and refine his game in Abbotsford, he is providing the Vancouver Canucks and their fans with ample reason to be excited about his future. His progress demonstrates why he remains a top prospect in the Canucks' system and suggests that he could become a key contributor to the team's success in the years to come.
