Suvanto continued to build on his reputation as a steady, two-way defenseman throughout his 2025-26 season with the Tappara (Liiga). While he isn’t the flashiest player on the ice, his poise with the puck, smart decision-making, and reliable positioning allowed him to handle increased responsibility against stronger competition. He became more confident joining the rush when opportunities presented themselves, but his game remained rooted in strong efficient puck movement, and limiting mistakes.

Suvanto signed his entry-level contract with Washington on July 14. He will be loaned to Tappara (Liiga) for the 2026-27 season.

Suvanto was selected 18th overall by the Capitals. It was the first time the team has drafted a Finn since 2006, which leads you to think they have no scouts in Finland.

Oliver Suvanto was not on many radars, but he made a major name for himself after a strong performance at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, where he was one of Finland’s top players. The Finnish center was a highly noticeable two-way forward with a pesky game, Suvanto does well crafting offense and being a two-way producer. What Suvanto does best is his defense. Suvanto is a defensively responsible center who positions himself well and with maturity, but also has the physical ability to be tough in 1v1 battles. Suvanto isn’t a player with any high-level attributes, but he’s shown a high level of overall growth, and hasn’t looked out of place in sheltered minutes in Liiga. With how much he’s improved as a player, he may have a few big proponents of his game within the coming months.

Looking ahead, Suvanto’s biggest area for growth will be adding another layer of offensive creativity and continuing to develop his skating, particularly his lateral mobility. Even so, his mature defensive game and hockey IQ give him a solid foundation to project as a dependable NHL forward capable of playing reliable minutes in a variety of situations.