Story Summary
Jokerit are preparing for an important Liiga week with five players absent through injury, including star forward Teemu Turunen.
Turunen was injured in Jokerit’s third regular-season game and is expected to remain out for a further three to five weeks. Defenceman Olli Juolevi, who has been recovering from injury throughout the early part of the season, is also not expected to return for another two to four weeks.
Jokerit host HIFK in the Stadin Derby on Thursday before league leaders Ilves visit Helsinki on Saturday.
Key Facts
- Teemu Turunen is expected to be sidelined for a further three to five weeks after being injured in Jokerit’s third regular-season game.
- Olli Juolevi has a recovery estimate of two to four weeks.
- Kristo Pitkänen’s situation is being monitored day by day.
- Miro Nalli and Oskari Manninen became Jokerit’s latest injury absentees last week.
- Nalli is being assessed day by day, while Manninen is still undergoing examinations and has no confirmed return timetable.
- Jokerit will host HIFK on Thursday and Liiga leaders Ilves on Saturday.
IHM Discussion
The absence list leaves Jokerit short-handed for two demanding home fixtures. Turunen’s expected absence is the longest stated timetable among the group, while Juolevi’s recovery also extends into the coming weeks. The status of Pitkänen and Nalli remains less certain, and Manninen’s timetable cannot be set until his examinations are complete.
Thursday’s Stadin Derby against HIFK arrives before Jokerit have clarity on several of those cases. Saturday then brings Ilves, who are identified as the Liiga leaders.
Why It Matters
Jokerit’s immediate challenge is the volume of unavailable players rather than a single late fitness concern. Five injury absences are in place as the club prepares for consecutive home games against HIFK and Ilves, with no confirmed return dates for Pitkänen, Nalli or Manninen.