Oliver Kapanen

Oliver Kapanen (born 29 July 2003) is a Finnish professional ice hockey centre for Timrå IK of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). He was selected in the second round, 64th overall, by the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League (NHL) in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.

Playing career
Kapanen was drafted in the second round, 64th overall, by the Canadiens in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He made his professional debut for KalPa during the 2021–22 season.

Following three seasons with KalPa, Kapanen opted to continue his development in the neighbouring Swedish Hockey League (SHL), joining Timrå IK on a two-year contract on 9 May 2024. Kapanen likewise signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Canadiens organization on 15 June 2024.

International play
Kapanen represented Finland at the 2021 IIHF World U18 Championships where he appeared in four games. Kapanen will represent Finland at the 2022 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.

Personal life
Kapanen comes from a hockey playing family. He is the grandson of former professional hockey player Hannu Kapanen and the son of Kimmo Kapanen. He is the great-nephew of Jari Kapanen, nephew of Sami Kapanen and cousin of Kasperi Kapanen and Konsta Kapanen.