During his post-trade deadline press conference, Seattle Kraken GM Ron Francis spoke about a variety of topics, including the stellar play of prospect Jani Nyman.
Playing in his rookie season in the AHL, Nyman has been a dominant force. The 20-year-old leads the Coachella Valley Firebirds in goals and points. On top of that, Nyman leads all AHL rookies in goals and is tied for third among all AHL players.
It didn’t take long for Nyman to settle in despite the change from professional hockey in Liiga, Finland’s top professional league, to the AHL, where the ice is smaller and the game is more physical.
He was recently named AHL Rookie of the Month and was selected to replace Cale Fleury as the Firebirds’ All-Star game representative.
“Jani Nyman’s got 26 goals, he’s No.1 in the American Hockey League for rookie goal scoring and I think he’s fourth for rookie scoring in points as well,” said Francis. “I think he’s fourth overall in goal scoring in the AHL and that’s really good for a young kid. That’s exciting and at some point here we’ll give him a look too before the end of the season.”
Listed at 6’4, 220 lbs, Nyman has the physical tools to be an effective NHL player but possesses the skills to be a top producer. Francis compared Nyman’s shot to Mikko Ranaten’s, both possessing the ability to one-time to the puck with force and accuracy but also the ability to beat a goaltender with an exceptional release. Due to their size, they’re dangerous in front of the opponent’s net.
Jani Nyman’s name has been brought up repeatedly by Francis in the conversation for AHL call-ups. 26 goals in Coachella this year.
Francis: “Mikko Rantanen type of shot.”
— Mike Benton (@Benton_Mike) March 7, 2025
A second-round pick (49th overall) in the 2022 NHL draft, the Finnish winger has progressed quickly and will challenge for a roster spot on opening night if he impresses during his tryout in the NHL this season and pre-season next year.
Moving veteran forwards opens up roster spots for young skilled players to seize the opportunity and Nyman is on pace to due so but he’ll be in tough competition.
“We’ve seen glimpses of (Ryan) Winterton coming up and down and (Jagger) Firkus is playing well down there,” said Francis. “We have a lot of guys that are playing well down there and that doesn’t include guys outside of that.”
The playoffs are virtually out of reach for the Kraken but the last 18 games still serve a purpose. Focusing on development and looking to improve their future could go a long way.
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