Capitals take Oliver Suvanto 18th overall, Barkov admirer in tow
Finnish center brings two decades of Capitals drought to an end with a Barkov-inspired skill set and relentless work ethic.
The Washington Capitals ended a 20-year Finnish player drought by selecting center Suvanto with the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Suvanto, a 19-year-old Finn, has spent the past year transforming his body, adding muscle that unlocked a breakthrough season in Finland’s top league, Liiga. His game is built on two-way tenacity and puck possession, traits he openly credits to idol Aleksander Barkov, the Panthers captain and two-time Selke Trophy finalist.
