Finnish center Oliver Suvanto goes to Capitals, chasing Barkov-style two-way impact
The Washington Capitals drafted Finnish center Oliver Suvanto 18th overall in the 2026 NHL Draft. A 6'3", 207-pound forward who played for Tappara in Liiga, Suvanto was the second-youngest first-round pick and says his game mirrors Barkov’s: a strong two-way, workmanlike ethic. Washington views him as a future second-line center who can also play wing, praised for size, smart play, and leadership, and Suvanto has trained with Barkov ahead of the 2026 IIHF World Championship while aiming to add offensive consistency.
