Liam Öhgren: A Promising Addition to the Vancouver Canucks
Liam Öhgren, a 21-year-old winger from Sweden, recently became one of the three new players acquired by the Vancouver Canucks through the trade involving Quinn Hughes. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 187 pounds, Öhgren was selected 19th overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2022 NHL Draft.
Background and Early Career
His prior experience in Sweden is particularly notable, as he played alongside fellow countryman Jonathan Lekkerimäki with Djurgårdens IF, forming a promising partnership both at the club level and during international competitions. This background may ease their transition into the NHL, thanks to their established on-ice chemistry.
In the 2023 Draft Preview published by The Hockey News, Öhgren was rated 20th overall, with comparisons drawn to the likes of Filip Forsberg. Recognized for his contributions as the captain of Sweden’s U-18 team, he notably shone in the gold medal game against the USA, scoring two goals and totaling three points in a decisive 6-4 victory.
Scouting Reports and Performance
Scouting reports have praised Öhgren for his well-built physique and powerful shot, indicating that he possesses a shoot-first mentality, though he is also capable of making plays. Descriptively, he is viewed as a winger who combines speed and competitiveness with solid technical skills.
During his previous season, Öhgren spent part of the year in the SHL, where, despite not posting significant numbers, he gained valuable experience—especially now that Djurgårdens has been relegated to the Allsvenskan, Sweden’s second-tier league. Scouts have noted his developmental progress and physical prowess; however, there remains speculation about his long-term potential. His offensive production raises questions—will he emerge as a reliable point generator, or settle into more of a consistent role as a hardworking winger?
Current Season Challenges
Öhgren is renowned for his powerful shooting ability and willingness to challenge goaltenders, exemplified by his 40 shot attempts in just 18 games this season. His speed also plays a pivotal role, allowing him to effectively forecheck and apply pressure on opposing defenses, evidenced by his average of 10.13 hits per 60 minutes played.
However, this season has not unfolded as Öhgren would have liked. He has yet to register a point in his first 18 games and is averaging a modest 9 minutes and 32 seconds of ice time. Despite this slow start, positive signs have begun to emerge, with an uptick in his performance during the last two games, as he registered 13 shot attempts.
Future Prospects with the Canucks
For the Vancouver Canucks, successfully developing Öhgren could yield significant dividends, as he possesses the required skill set to become a vital component in their top-six forward lineup, not just at even strength but also on the power play. Including him in the trade for Hughes appears to be a strategic move that could pay off down the line. Fans should keep their eyes on his journey, as Öhgren has the potential for a bright and impactful future in professional hockey.
