Story Summary
Jori Lehterä, who unexpectedly ended his playing career in September, is reportedly still attracting interest from hockey clubs. Timo Kunnari said on the Lätkäpod podcast that several teams have asked whether the 38-year-old centre would consider returning to the ice.
Lehterä’s name has also been mentioned following HIFK’s coaching change. The Helsinki club dismissed head coach Olli Jokinen on Wednesday and appointed Tommi Miettinen as his replacement. However, Kunnari said information obtained from Lehterä’s agency indicated that HIFK have not pursued the former player.
“Several clubs have apparently enquired about Lehterä, but HIFK are not one of them,”Kunnari said. “Lehterä has retired.”
Key Facts
- Jori Lehterä unexpectedly ended his playing career in September.
- Timo Kunnari said several clubs have asked the 38-year-old centre about a possible return to playing.
- HIFK dismissed head coach Olli Jokinen on Wednesday and named Tommi Miettinen as his replacement.
- Kunnari said HIFK have not been among the clubs pursuing Lehterä.
- Lehterä’s reported status remains retired despite enquiries from clubs.
IHM Discussion
The report distinguishes between outside interest and an active comeback process. Clubs are said to have made enquiries, but there is no indication that Lehterä has agreed to return or that a specific move is close.
HIFK’s coaching change has placed the club at the centre of discussion around Lehterä, yet the available information points away from a link. Kunnari’s account is clear that HIFK have not contacted Lehterä through his agency, even as other clubs have reportedly explored his willingness to play again.
Why It Matters
Lehterä remains a notable name in Finnish hockey, so any suggestion of a return naturally draws attention. For now, though, the meaningful development is limited: teams have reportedly tested the possibility, while the player is still described as retired.
The clarification also prevents HIFK’s managerial change from being treated as evidence of a pending player move. Tommi Miettinen’s appointment is confirmed, but it does not establish a connection between HIFK and Lehterä.