Canucks' Liam Ohgren Embraces Power Forward Role with Confidence and Skill
The Vancouver Canucks have long sought a dominant left winger who can blend physical strength, explosive speed, and consistent scoring to challenge NHL opponents. This search has seen glimpses of promise but often ended in unmet expectations.
A Legacy of Power and Promise
Historically, the Canucks enjoyed formidable power on the right wing with Todd Bertuzzi, who delivered 46 goals and 97 points during the 2002-03 season. However, replicating that presence on the left side has proven elusive. While playmakers like Markus Naslund and Daniel Sedin excelled in creativity and production, the archetype of a true power forward on the left flank remained more aspiration than achievement.
Vasily Podkolzin showed early potential but faced challenges in maintaining a complete game. Jake Virtanen, despite his size and speed, struggled to become a consistently tough opponent. The 2016 draft decision to select Olli Juolevi over Matthew Tkachuk further highlighted the team's difficulties in securing this crucial role.
Ohgren's Emergence as a Key Prospect
Enter Liam Ohgren, a 22-year-old Swedish winger whose early performances have sparked optimism. Acquired as part of the significant Quinn Hughes trade in December, Ohgren has quickly demonstrated attributes that align with the power-forward ideal. His aggressive forechecking, pace-pushing style, and ability to generate scoring chances have caught the attention of coaches and fans alike.
In a season where the Canucks have struggled, Ohgren's emergence offers a bright spot. On February 2 in Salt Lake City, he showcased his capabilities by scoring off a rush with impressive speed and finish, then creating another high-quality chance alongside linemates Teddy Blueger and Conor Garland. The trio combined for nine points over two games prior to the Olympic break.
Canucks head coach Adam Foote praised Ohgren's attributes, noting, "He's got that powerful speed. Pretty impressive for a young guy with how strong he is on pucks and keeping plays alive."
Embracing Pressure and Defining His Game
With nine points (4 goals, 5 assists) in 26 games with Vancouver, Ohgren acknowledges the pressure but welcomes it. He stated, "For sure. That's my game. A power forward with some skill, and I know I can score goals. I can make toe-drag plays, but that's not my focus. I want to be hard to play against and win puck battles."
Ohgren's confidence stems from a history of competing against older players. Growing up in Stockholm, he often faced opponents years his senior, including at Djurgardens Junior at age 17. His development continued with standout performances in Swedish leagues, where he recorded 58 points (33 goals, 25 assists) in 30 games during the 2021-22 junior season and later scored 12 goals in 26 SHL games against much older competition.
Draft History and Inspirations
The Canucks first noticed Ohgren at the 2022 NHL Draft, where they selected his Swedish teammate Jonathan Lekkerimaki 15th overall. Ohgren was taken four picks later by the Minnesota Wild. Reflecting on the draft, Ohgren recalled, "I had a meeting with the Canucks and had a really good feeling, and thought if Lekky (Lekkerimaki) wasn't available, they would take me."
NHL prospects scout Shane Malloy highlighted Ohgren's potential at the time, predicting, "Power forwards are hard to find and there are not many in the league. He's going to be more than 200 pounds, and already plays like a man. His ability to control the play below the circles and in front of the net is going to be a problem for a lot of teams."
Ohgren draws inspiration from Colorado Avalanche veteran Gabriel Landeskog, admiring his battling spirit, leadership, and all-around excellence. He noted, "I wanted to play like him because he battles, is a great leader on and off the ice, and does everything right. He started working out with my dad when he was very young."
Family Influence and Fresh Start
Ohgren's father, Andreas, a strength and conditioning coach who has worked with NHL players like Nicklas Backstrom and Marcus Johansson, provided early exposure to professional training regimens. Ohgren said, "I was always in the gym watching those guys. I was always around them, and that might have helped to motivate me to be them one day."
The trade to Vancouver came as a surprise to Ohgren, who admitted, "I was shocked when I got the call. It's hard because you get drafted and want to be there your whole career. You know anything can happen, and they (Wild) obviously got a pretty good player and had to give up good players. A fresh start for me and a bigger role."
As the Canucks continue their rebuild, Liam Ohgren represents a promising piece in the puzzle—a young player with the physical tools, mindset, and determination to evolve into the power forward the franchise has long coveted.
