Observations:

April 2016 – To say the acquisition of Granlund by the Canucks organization was a surprise wouldn’t necessarily be accurate, as he has long been regarded as a decent NHL prospect. What was surprising, however, was the cost – in this case, 2013 first-round selection Hunter Shinkaruk. Since coming over to the Canucks on February 22^nd, the 23-year-old winger did not embarrass himself by any means… but did little to assuage the fears of giving up on Shinkaruk. Posting a meager two goals and three points over 16 games while posting a minus-3 rating, it is subject for debate as to the root cause of the young Finn’s performance. Was it symptomatic of the overall poor play of the Canucks down the stretch? Or is it truly a reflection of what he will be at the NHL level? Canucks fans will certainly be hoping it is the former, particularly given Shinkaruk’s solid performance at the AHL level. David McDonald

November 2014 – Granlund had a good outing in his first game of the season in Flames red. He was between Gaudreau and Hudler and put up an assist on Hudler's third period game tying goal. He registered two shots while going 42% on the dot and logged 17:57 in ice time. Granlund also saw time on the PK. He could be a breakout player for the Flames this season if he sticks after injuries subside. Brad Wilson

October 2014 – Granlund will get his shot on the big club as the Flames have been slammed by injuries. If he can stick in the NHL he could work out to be a decent sleeper in deeper fantasy leagues. The center managed three goals and five points in eight games for Adirondack before the call came down. Brad Wilson

September 2014 – Granlund finished the Young Stars tournament with four points. He had his second two point game in the tourney finale playing on a 'veteran' line with Josh Jooris and Michael Ferland. Granlund made strides last year and his defensive game is one area he showcased during the AHL playoffs. It's going to be a competitive camp in Calgary as they boast one of the best crops of youth in the NHL while they continue to rebuild. Brad Wilson

April 2014 – Granlund finished the 2013-14 season with 46 points (25 goals) in 52 games and was a plus-10. He has been seeing time on the wing and if the shift from center stays true when he arrives on the big scene, it should increase his chances of cracking the NHL lineup sooner than later. The depth at center is getting deeper with the addition of Bill Arnold and Granlund will need to find his space in the lineup. During the AHL playoffs, Granlund's line has been taking a more defensively responsible role. He will push hard for a Flames roster spot in camp but with a logjam of young forwards trying to break in, it may not happen straight out of the gate. Brad Wilson

March 2014 – Markus Granlund is experiencing a fantastic first season in North America playing for the AHL's Abbotsford Heat. The rookie sits second in team scoring and fourth overall in first year players. In 10 games with Abbotsford in February, Granlund netted five goals and 12 points posting a plus-6 rating earning him CCM/AHL Rookie of the Month honours. Granlund was rewarded with a call-up to the Calgary Flames skating in three games (as of March 4th) where the young Finn picked up a single assist. The future looks bright for Granlund in Calgary as he continues on an impressive development curve. Brendan Ross

March 2013 – Granlund struggled at first with the move to center, but has quickly adapted and the move has turned out to be a good one. He has 12 points in 13 games after taking 28 games to get his first 12. Dobber

December 2012 – The younger Granlund has been struggling in the first half of the season, much like his whole team. He has managed to put together only 12 points in 28 games. Granlund will center one of Finland's top lines in upcoming World Juniors. Miika Arponen

October 2012 – Some people expected Markus to take the first line center role of HIFK that was left empty after brother Mikael moved to North America. That has not happened, but Markus has still started the season decently. Two goals and as many assists in seven games is what he accomplished in the first month of the season. His shooting percentage is significantly low (7.1%) and his goal numbers should come up from what they are now. Miika Arponen

April 2011 – Markus Granlund is the younger of the much-hyped Granlund brothers. He is similar to his brother. Amazing skills with the puck and great hockey vision. He has virtually no weaknesses in the offensive. Great wrist shot and good playmaking skills. Needs strength, experience, and time to put it all together. Miika Arponen

Fantasy Outlook: B+

Granlund is nearing full time NHL duty and could see a number of significant games in the 2014-15 season.

Footage:

Granlund first NHL goal:

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Markus Granlund highlight reel:

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Buy the latest Fantasy Prospects Report here.

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