Going into the 2025 pre-season, we had plenty of questions about how the Vancouver Canucks ’ roster would shake out.

Management had talked about finding a second-line forward, for instance. They still clearly would like to find a veteran centre to add to their depth chart, but there’s little doubt the rapid growth of Braeden Cootes’ game may shift some of that thinking.

That’s been the big obvious highlight of training camp, but it mustn’t overshadow the real development: Jonathan Lekkerimaki looks ready to take the big step and be an NHL regular.

The kid can shoot. But he’s come in stronger and a little wiser this season. And in pre-season he has shown that he’s learned that you need to use your time wisely with the puck.

“He’s got a very deceptive shot,” head coach Adam Foote said

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