Jonathan Lekkerimäki Could Become Next Great Swedish Player To Wear #23 For The Canucks

Jersey numbers play a big role in the world of sports. They not only help identify players but are retired to honour former players that have gone above and beyond for the organization. Sometimes, there is even a trend when it comes to jersey numbers, like with the Vancouver Canucks, who have a history of Swedish players wearing the number 23.

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The first Swedish player in Canucks history to wear 23 is arguably one of the most recognizable players ever to play for the organization. From 1976-86, the jersey was worn by forward Thomas Gradin, who is one of the eight members of the organization's Ring of Honour. With 550 points in 613 games, he also still sits sixth on Vancouver's all-time points list. A Canucks career that has spanned over four decades, first as a player and then as a scout, few have done more for the organization than Gradin has.

While it took just over two decades for the next Swede to wear number 23, it was worth the wait as defenceman Alex Edler took over the jersey. Edler played 925 games with Vancouver and is still the franchise's all-time points leader among defenceman with 409. While it hasn't been planned yet, there is little doubt that Edler will join Gradin, taking his rightful place in the Ring of Honour.

Since Edler's departure in 2021, the number 23 has been worn twice more by Swedish players. First was now Stanley Cup champion Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who wore 23 for two seasons, followed by Elias Lindholm, who wore it during his brief time with the organization last year. While neither had long-term success with the Canucks, both have had impressive careers that have lasted over 800 games.

This leads to the present and Jonathan Lekkerimäki, who will be the next Swedish player to wear the number 23. While it is unclear when Vancouver's top prospect will make his NHL debut, it shouldn't be long before Canucks fans see the newest number 23 at Rogers Arena. There is no question that the 20-year-old winger is talented; the question is, can he live up to the standard set by those Swedish players who wore number 23 before him?

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