Patrik Allvin says it’s up to Jonathan Lekkerimaki on where he ends up after training camp based on how he performs.
After a solid 2023-24 campaign both with his club in Sweden and on the international stage, Jonathan Lekkerimaki is set for his first season in North America and will need to show the coaching staff and management that he’s worthy of starting the season in Vancouver. Lekkerimaki will get plenty of opportunity during the pre-season to prove to the higher ups that he can be in the NHL right away, but at the end of the day, it’ll come down to what is best for his development.
In an interview with Swedish media outlet HockeySverige this week, Vancouver Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin said that it’s going to be up to Jonathan Lekkerimaki on where he ends up once training camp concludes.
Allvin added that he hopes Lekkerimaki has gained an understanding of playing on the smaller rinks in North America and that they have to respect his age and experience with there being no rush when it comes to him playing in the National Hockey League.
Note: the quotes in this story are translated from Swedish.
“It will be exciting. Jonathan was here and showed himself in the farm team during the spring. He did very well.” Allvin said.
He added, “I hope that he then gained an understanding of what is required on smaller rinks. It will be interesting to see him at the camp as everything starts in motion. Then it is up to him where he will end up in the end, but we are very happy to bring Jonathan over here and to continue working with him. He is a very talented player.
We must have respect for age and experience as well, so there is no rush, but when he is physically and mentally ready, Jonathan will show where he wants to be.”
When asked if Lekkerimaki returning to Sweden was an option for the 2024-25 season, Allvin said that it wasn’t and that he’ll be in North America to continue his development under the close eyes of the organization.
“No, I don’t see that. I see him being over here to continue his development.” Allvin said.
Last season, Lekkerimaki had 31 points (19 goals, 12 assists) in 46 games for his Swedish Hockey League club, Orebro HK and went on to represent his nation at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, taking home MVP honours and the silver medal after registering 10 points in seven games.
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