Canucks eye Finnish forward in upcoming draft
The Vancouver Canucks enter the 2026 NHL Entry Draft with ten selections, a rare haul that gives the club flexibility to target talent across the later rounds. Among the names surfacing in scouting reports is Matias Vanhanen, a left‑winger from the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League.
Vanhanen’s rookie campaign in the WHL was anything but modest. He posted 87 points in 62 games, a production level that helped the Silvertips secure a historic berth in the Memorial Cup. At 5‑11 and 176 pounds, the Finnish prospect combines agility with a knack for creating scoring chances.
Memorial Cup breakthrough
In the tournament he was tied for second in scoring with eight points, and his performance earned him a spot on the All‑Star Team. That exposure has amplified his profile ahead of the draft.
The Canucks’ management has indicated they will evaluate adding Vanhanen to their prospect pool if he remains available when their third‑round pick arrives. His recent upward trajectory and proven ability to perform on big stages make him a compelling candidate for a franchise looking to deepen its forward ranks.
International exposure
He also wore Finland’s colors at the 2026 World Juniors, contributing six assists in seven games while leading all Finnish forwards in ice time at 19:52 per night. His playmaking instincts and ability to operate under heavy minutes suggest a readiness for the next step.