Canadiens forward Oliver Kapanen receives disappointing news at Team Finland practice


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Jan 12, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens center Oliver Kapanen (91) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Vancouver Canucks at Bell Centre.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We thought young Oliver Kapanen had earned his place among Finland’s elite.

The latest news coming out of Finland’s practice is a tough blow for Montreal Canadiens fans.

Kapanen finds himself listed as an extra forward today. Let’s be honest, it’s a cold shower for a player who is otherwise enjoying a terrific season.

Let’s tell it like it is: his stats speak for themselves. Only big names like Mikko Rantanen, Sebastian Aho, and Artturi Lehkonen have scored more goals than him among Finnish players this season.

It’s hard to swallow when you look at his efficiency around the net. The coaching staff, however, appears to be favoring experience for now in the opening lineup.

It’s quite the contrast between the two prospects in the organization. We’re seeing Suzuki cement his place among the world’s best while Kapanen is forced to wait his turn.

Bad news for Oliver Kapanen as Team Finland lists him as an extra forward

“Oliver Kapanen is an extra forward at Team Finland practice today.

The only Finnish players with more goals than him this season are: Mikko Rantanen, Sebastian Aho & Artturi Lehkonen.”

– HabsOnReddit

Finland’s depth chart is solid with players like Granlund and Teräväinen. Oliver Kapanen must stay ready, because injuries can happen quickly in a tournament like this.

The young forward has proven this year that he can produce under pressure. His offensive output has been one of the most pleasant surprises of the weekend for Montreal’s management.

We’re keeping a close eye on the situation, because everything can change before the first official game. Kapanen has the talent to force his coaches’ hand by Wednesday.

Let’s be honest, seeing him on the sidelines is disappointing for his development. You want to see young players testing themselves against the best on the ice — not watching from the stands.

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Canadiens forward Oliver Kapanen receives disappointing news at Team Finland practice

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