Jonathan Lekkerimäki Could Make an Impact ASAP | Näslund Comparisons + Canucks Cuts Update

The Vancouver Canucks are closer to seeing Jonathan Lekkerimäki make waves than most realize. He’s already showing signs of being a high-upside offensive weapon—and when you compare his trajectory to Markus Näsllund, you begin to see how similar paths of steady growth and scoring instinct could set Lekkerimäki up for early success. Meanwhile, as the roster takes shape, the Canucks have already made several cuts this preseason that highlight where Lekkerimäki and others might fit.

In this episode of Locked On Canucks, we break down:

🔥 Lekkerimäki’s Rising Stock & Näslund Echoes

Lekkerimäki is no stranger to elite company—he already joined the club of Markus Näslund, Peter Forsberg, and Thomas Gradin for certain scoring feats in Europe.

In his first full AHL / North American season, Lekkerimäki tallied 19 goals and 12 assists in 46 games with Abbotsford, showing he can translate his European pedigree into production.

Canucks Army describes him as “underrated” and notes that, among Vancouver’s prospects, he has the largest sample size and is one of the few already adjusted to North American-style play.

His shot, scoring instincts, versatility, and potential to influence power-play or top-six roles mirror how Näslund gradually emerged as a key piece in Vancouver’s core through work ethic and consistency.

✂️ Recent Cuts & Roster Moves That Matter

The Canucks placed Joe Labate, Mackenzie MacEachern, Jiri Patera, and Jimmy Schuldt on waivers to send them to the AHL, indicating fewer spaces and more competition at forward and depth positions.

Nine players were cut from the preseason roster, solidifying the roster count and demonstrating which roles are now locked.

On defense, top prospect Sawyer Mynio was assigned to Abbotsford. While timely for his development, this cut also signals that not all young d-men are being pressed into NHL roles yet.

Vancouver Is Awesome

These moves tighten the window for prospects to slip into the lineup—and for someone like Lekkerimäki, the path is clearer now: if he’s ready, there may not be room for hesitation.

💡 Why Lekkerimäki’s Timing Might Be Perfect

With cuts being made and forward depth being tested, Lekkerimäki might find openings earlier than expected.

he team’s willingness to move on from fringe players shows that the margin for performance is thin—and a guy already showing scoring touch could get a look faster.

The Näslund-style comparison gives fans and media a narrative: if Lekkerimäki can mature steadily and stay consistent, he could grow into a star the way Näslund did—not overnight, but through persistent development.

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