Story Summary
Kiekko-Pojat have signed defenceman Joona Lehmus to a contract covering the rest of the season. The 24-year-old arrives in Joensuu after beginning the campaign without a club.
Lehmus’s agreement includes options allowing him to move to a Liiga club or abroad during the season. He is set to be available immediately for Kiekko-Pojat, who host KeuPa on Thursday.
The signing gives the Mestis side a player with 78 Liiga appearances, including spells with JYP and HIFK. Last season, Lehmus played 29 Liiga games for JYP, recording one goal and six assists.
Key Facts
- Joona Lehmus, 24, has signed with Kiekko-Pojat until the end of the season.
- The contract contains options for a move to Liiga or an overseas club during the season.
- Lehmus started the season without a club before joining the Joensuu-based Mestis team.
- He played 29 Liiga games for JYP last season, posting 1+6.
- Lehmus also recorded 4+15=19 in 19 Mestis games for KeuPa HT last season.
- Across his Liiga career, Lehmus has played 78 games and registered 3+13=16.
- He spent the previous two seasons with JYP and two seasons before that with HIFK.
- Lehmus has 66 Mestis appearances across three seasons, representing KeuPa HT and Kiekko-Vantaa as well as Kiekko-Pojat.
IHM Discussion
This is a straightforward addition of a defenceman with substantial experience at both of Finland’s top two levels. Lehmus brings recent production from Mestis as well as a longer Liiga record, having accumulated 16 points in 78 games in the top flight.
His 19 points in 19 Mestis appearances for KeuPa HT last season stand out in the context of his new league assignment. Kiekko-Pojat are at the bottom of Mestis, and Lehmus has made clear that he wants to help the club turn towards wins.
The Liiga and overseas clauses are an important part of the arrangement. They offer Lehmus a route to change clubs during the season while Kiekko-Pojat gain a player who is available now and familiar with the level.
Why It Matters
For Kiekko-Pojat, Lehmus adds a defenceman with recent Mestis scoring and prior Liiga experience at a time when the club are trying to improve their position. For the player, the deal ends a period without a club and creates an immediate playing opportunity in Joensuu.
The contract’s options also mean the agreement does not rule out a later move if a Liiga or overseas opportunity arises. Until then, Lehmus is available to Kiekko-Pojat under a deal running through the end of the season.
Mini Q&A
How long is Joona Lehmus contracted to Kiekko-Pojat?
His contract runs through the end of the season.
Can Lehmus leave Kiekko-Pojat during the season?
Yes. His agreement includes options for a move to a Liiga club or abroad during the season.
What did Lehmus produce in Mestis last season?
He recorded four goals and 15 assists for 19 points in 19 games with KeuPa HT.
What Comes Next
Lehmus is available when Kiekko-Pojat host KeuPa on Thursday. It will be his first opportunity to make his Kiekko-Pojat debut after signing for the remainder of the season.