The Vancouver Canucks have assigned right-winger Jonathan Lekkerimäki to the AHL. The 20-year-old will join the Abbotsford Canucks, who are currently on a 13-game winning streak. During his latest call-up, Jonathan Lekkerimäki played 13 games, recording three points while averaging 11:25 of ice time.
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This season, Lekkerimäki has thrived in the AHL. In 32 games, he has 19 goals along with 28 points. Despite spending significant time on Vancouver's NHL roster, Lekkerimäki ranks tied for ninth in goals among AHL rookies, while his 116 shots rank 20th.
Sending Lekkerimäki down to the AHL also protects his Calder Trophy eligibility for next season. The Swedish winger has played 24 games and would lose his eligibility if he dressed two more times this season. Only two players in franchise history have won the Calder Trophy, with those being Pavel Bure in 1992 and Elias Pettersson in 2019.
Multiple Canucks Could Lose Their 2026 Calder Trophy Eligibility Before The End Of The SeasonWith eight games remaining, the Vancouver Canucks are in an uphill battle to qualify for the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. At this point, it is likely the Canucks will need to win at least seven of their final games, as the teams above them in standings keep collecting points on a nightly basis. While returning to the post-season isn't likely, it is not an impossible task, especially as Vancouver plays six of their final eight games at home.
The first opportunity for Lekkerimäki to get into Abbotsford's lineup will be on April 11 against the Calgary Wranglers. The Calgary Flames AHL team sit fifth in the Pacific Division and are ten points back of the AHL Canucks. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 pm PT from the Abbotsford Centre.
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