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Caps ink first-round pick Suvanto to ELC

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JUNE 26: Oliver Suvanto sits onstage for an interview after being selected 18th overall by the Washington Capitals during Day One of the 2026 NHL Draft at KeyBank Center on June 26, 2026 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images) (Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

The Washington Capitals announced the signing of Oliver Suvanto to a three-year, entry-level contract on Tuesday.

The 17-year-old centre was the 17th overall selection at last month’s NHL Draft.

A native of Turku, Finland, Suvanto is expected to be loaned back to his Liiga team, Tappara, for next season.

Suvanto made his senior debut for Tappara last season after suiting up for their under-18 team in 2024-2025. He appeared in 48 games, scoring two goals and adding nine assists. He also dressed in one playoff contest for the team.

Internationally, Suvanto has represented Finland at a number of youth levels. He had two goals in seven games at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Minnesota.

Suvanto became just the second Finn taken in the first round by the Caps, joining Miika Elomo, who was the 23rd overall selection in 1995.