As the NHL heads into its Olympic break, the Vancouver Canucks are making strategic moves to keep their pipeline players active and sharp. On Tuesday, the team reassigned forward Jonathan Lekkerimäki, defenseman Victor Mancini, and goaltender Nikita Tolopilo to their AHL affiliate in Abbotsford. In a corresponding move, netminder Jiri Patera was recalled from the AHL on an emergency basis.
This isn’t just a paper shuffle-it’s a calculated decision to ensure their young talent keeps seeing game action while the NHL schedule hits pause. And for a team that’s been developing a strong foundation through its prospect pool, every rep matters.
Lekkerimäki’s Development Continues
Jonathan Lekkerimäki, the Canucks’ 2022 first-round pick, continues to show why he’s one of the organization’s most promising young forwards. The 21-year-old has been splitting time between Vancouver and Abbotsford this season, and his AHL numbers are turning heads: 10 goals and 16 points in just 16 games. That kind of production speaks to his ability to find space and finish plays at the pro level.
His NHL stint has been more modest-three points in 16 games-but that’s not unexpected for a young winger adjusting to the speed and physicality of the top league. Getting him back to Abbotsford during the break allows him to keep building confidence and sharpening the offensive instincts that made him a first-rounder in the first place.
Mancini’s First Full Pro Season Takes Shape
Victor Mancini, 23, is in the middle of his first full season within the Canucks organization after arriving as part of last season’s J.T. Miller trade.
The big blueliner has seen action in 10 NHL games this year, averaging just under 14 minutes of ice time per night. He’s also logged 23 games in the AHL, where he’s picked up eight points.
For a young defenseman, the transition to the NHL is often about learning how to manage pace and positioning. Mancini’s minutes in Vancouver suggest the coaching staff sees potential in his game, but sending him down for the break gives him a chance to play bigger minutes and continue refining the details.
Tolopilo Returns to a Familiar Net
Perhaps the most impactful move is the reassignment of Nikita Tolopilo. The 26-year-old netminder has been a steady presence for Abbotsford and played a key role in their Calder Cup-winning season last year. In 36 games, he posted a .902 save percentage-a solid mark for a goalie in a developmental league.
This season, he’s continued that consistency with a .901 save percentage in 13 AHL games. But what’s really notable is how he’s performed in his NHL opportunities. In nine appearances, Tolopilo has delivered a .910 save percentage, showing he can hold his own at the highest level.
Sending him back to Abbotsford during the Olympic break isn’t a demotion-it’s a chance to keep his rhythm. Goaltending is all about timing and confidence, and regular starts in the AHL will help him maintain both.
Patera Gets the Call
With Tolopilo heading back to Abbotsford, Vancouver has recalled Jiri Patera on an emergency basis. While that means Abbotsford loses its most frequent starter for the time being, it opens the door for Tolopilo to take the net and continue building on what’s been a strong season.
For the Canucks, these moves are about more than just filling roster spots-they’re about maximizing player development during a rare mid-season pause. Lekkerimäki, Mancini, and Tolopilo all have roles to play in the organization’s future, and the Olympic break gives them a window to keep progressing without missing a beat.