The Washington Capitals are sitting pretty heading into the 2026 NHL Draft, holding two first-round picks—including the No. 16 overall selection. If they keep that slot, one intriguing name to watch is Finnish center Oliver Suvanto.

Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 207 pounds, Suvanto is ranked as the No. 3 European skater by NHL Central Scouting. He’s the kind of player who projects as a reliable, middle-six center at the professional level—exactly the type of foundation piece teams love to build around.

After a standout season where he averaged a point per game with Tappara’s U18 team, Suvanto quickly moved up the ranks. He played just three games with the U20 squad before making the leap to Liiga, Finland’s top professional league. There, he held his own against grown men, logging second-line minutes and posting two goals and nine assists for 11 points in 48 games, plus a playoff appearance.

What makes Suvanto special? He’s a big-bodied, two-way center who thrives in a shutdown role while still contributing offensively. His skating is strong, his hockey IQ is high, and his awareness allows him to win those crucial 1-on-1 battles using his frame and stick. He’s a force along the boards, stays disciplined in his positioning, and supports his defensemen with smart, reliable play. His hands are good enough to create opportunities, and while he’s not the flashiest playmaker or scorer, he knows how to get to the gritty areas—especially around the net—to generate chances.

Of course, there’s room to grow. His skating and consistency need refinement, but that’s part of the package for a player his age. The upside is clear: Suvanto has the potential to carve out a significant role at the highest level.

Washington has a reputation for taking the best player available rather than drafting for position. But with Suvanto’s blend of size, smarts, and two-way ability, he could be a surefire selection—especially if he’s still on the board when the Capitals step up to the podium at No. 16.