Two Canucks Draft Picks Listed Listed In Top 75 NHL Affiliated Prospects
The Vancouver Canucks had two prospects listed in The Athletic's top 75 NHL-affiliated rankings.
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports - Two Canucks Draft Picks Listed Listed In Top 75 NHL Affiliated ProspectsThe Vancouver Canucks had two prospects listed in The Athletic's top 75 NHL-affiliated rankings.
Jonathan Lekkerimäki and Tom Willander are the Canucks two best prospects by a far margin.
Lekkerimäki is ranked No. 17 in Scott Wheeler's list.
"Lekkerimaki's talent is undeniable. He's dynamic, in control and threatening from anywhere in the offensive zone. He can beat you in an instant with a quick catch-and-release or curl-and-drag shot, or hang onto pucks and make things happen himself. He's got a knack for hitting holes in the net, frequently beating goalies low-blocker and five-hole. He's got A-level hands, a deceptive release, a lethal one-timer and a slyness to his game that allows him to get to spots to score with and without the puck," Wheeler writes.
He has had an upswing in offense in the SHL as of late. His totals on the year are 19 goals and ten assists in 42 games. The forward was terrific for Sweden at the World Juniors as well.
Tom Willander wasn't too far behind at No. 28. The Boston University defenseman has had a solid season in the NCAA. He has four goals and 14 assists in 30 games.
"He pulls away or retreats from pressure with ease, and excels on exits. His head is always up. He gets his shots through. And then, on top of the pro frame, the skating and the general athleticism, he also just plays the game with an intentionality that is rare in players his age. He looks and operates like a pro out there. His passes are quick and firm and he activates when he can," Wheeler writes.
The Swede's skating ability will be an excellent addition to the already active blueline of the Vancouver Canucks.
Vasili Podkolzin was named an honorable mention but wasn't ranked in the top 75. Podkolzin made his season debut in the NHL last night.
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