Ice hockey | 17-year-old NHL prospect received important lessons from Aleksander Barkov

Finnish prospect Oliver Suvanto, selected 18th overall by the Washington Capitals, recently had the opportunity to train with his idol, Florida Panthers star Aleksander Barkov. Suvanto, 17, had repeatedly cited Barkov as his role model during the draft.

"It was unbelievable to see how good he is. How he handles the puck, how he receives it. Passes, shoots. Amazing," Suvanto said, his eyes shining. "I tried to learn everything I possibly could from him."

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It was unbelievable to see how good he is. How he handles the puck, how he receives it. Passes, shoots. Amazing.

Suvanto and Barkov share similar playing styles, both described as large and reliable centers, though Barkov's offensive prowess is in a league of its own. During their sessions, Barkov shared insights on faceoffs and backhand puck receptions, skills crucial in the faster-paced, tighter-checking NHL.

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I tried to learn everything I possibly could from him.

"Barkov has been my idol for years. It was great to get tips from him," Suvanto added. He noted that they practiced faceoffs and puck control on the backhand, a vital skill in the NHL where passes are harder and space is limited.

Suvanto, who recorded 11 points in 48 games for Tappara last season, believes he played a positive season and made significant progress in his two-way game. However, he identifies his offensive threat as his primary area for development.

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We practiced faceoffs. I learned a couple of new things.

Despite some assessments, Capitals assistant GM Ross Mahoney believes Suvanto possesses more offensive skill than many realize. Suvanto himself feels he is not yet ready for the NHL, needing to gain more strength and improve his skating. He aims to become a complete two-way forward, not just a defensive center.

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Barkov has been my idol for years. It was great to get tips from him.