In this edition of The Journey, we will look at the fantasy potential of Vancouver Canucks power forward prospect Jake Virtanen. 

In the future, the 2014 NHL Entry Draft will likely be viewed as one of the deepest in recent memory. Names like Ekblad, Bennett, Ehlers, Nylander, Larkin and Pastrnak will likely grace the backs of NHL All-Star jerseys in the near future, as the next wave of young talent takes the league by storm. The Canucks, needing a solid power forward, drafted a homegrown winger with the 6th overall pick in 2014 that they expect to develop into a top-six forward and, hopefully, a franchise cornerstone.

A native of the Vancouver suburb of New Westminster, it was a dream of Virtanen’s to someday play for his hometown team. His road to fulfilling that dream began when he was drafted first overall in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft by the Calgary Hitmen, after posting 117 points and 128 penalty minutes for the AAA Abbotsford Hawks.

Virtanen put up modest numbers in his first season in the WHL, recording 34 points in 62 games. He earned more responsibility and an increase in ice time in his second season, both at even strength and on the power play. Virtanen responded to the added responsibility by lighting up the scoreboard with 45 goals and 71 points in 71 games. He ranked in the top ten in the WHL in goals, and was one of only four players in the league to record more than 70 points and 100 penalty minutes. Virtanen’s stock consistently rose through his draft year, and by the end of the season, he was a lock to be taken in the first round with a good chance of being a top-10 selection.

Prior to the draft, Virtanen underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum, which kept him out of the Hitmen lineup until late October. He returned in time to play a significant role for the gold medal winning Team Canada squad at the 2015 World Junior Hockey Championships. Despite only playing 50 games for the Hitmen, Virtanen recorded 52 points and 82 penalty minutes, continuing his momentum from the previous season. Virtanen was rewarded with a call up to the Utica Comets, where he recorded his first professional point while playing in ten AHL playoff games. 

Virtanen possesses elite speed and an NHL-level shot. He uses his speed to get defensive players off-balance through the neutral zone and, when they try to react, he positions his 6’1", 210-pound frame to protect the puck as he goes to the net. With a quick release and a blazing shot, the winger is able to catch goaltenders by surprise and score goals from all areas of the ice. He is a high-volume shooter who is a threat to score from anywhere in the offensive zone. Unlike some players with speed to burn in the NHL, Virtanen does not shy away from contact, but rather looks for every opportunity to initiate it. He already possesses NHL-ready attributes, but does need some seasoning when it comes to hockey sense and on-ice IQ. He can be prone to turning the puck over by trying to do too much rather than making a simple play.

Fantasy Potential 

Virtanen possesses the skills of the modern day NHL power forward. He has the speed, physicality and shot needed to potentially become a first-line winger in the future. 

If Virtanen reaches his ceiling, he projects to be a similar player to Jarome Iginla. He will bring speed and an edge to the Canucks that they have not had in recent years.

He will likely score in the 50- to 65-point range, with the ability to provide help to fantasy teams in multiple categories, mainly in leagues that track shots and hits.

Dobber Prospect Rank: 32nd overall prospect in Dobber Hockey’s Top 215

Fantasy Outlook: A-

Pros: Speed, Competitiveness, Physicality, Shot

Cons: Consistency

Anticipated NHL Arrival:  Virtanen should be an NHL player by 2016-17. He is still eligible to return to Calgary, but following his successful playoff stint in Utica , he will likely begin next season with the Comets.

Elite Prospects File

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