Story Summary
HC Ajoie have reportedly offered contract extensions to forward Kristian Tanus and captain Anttoni Honka in an effort to keep two of the National League club’s most productive players. The proposed deals are described as lucrative, with Ajoie said to have made a financial commitment unlike any previous player offer in the club’s history.
Tanus has led Ajoie’s fast start offensively, recording 20 points, including five goals, in 16 games. That places the Finnish forward third in National League scoring. Honka has supplied 14 points, seven of them goals, across the same 16-game span.
There is reported competition for Honka, however, with EV Zug said to hold strong interest in signing the 26-year-old defenceman. Ajoie supporters also made their case during the recent home game against Genève-Servette HC, displaying a Finnish-language banner aimed at both players.
Key Facts
- HC Ajoie have reportedly offered extensions to Finnish forward Kristian Tanus and Finnish defenceman Anttoni Honka.
- The offers are described as lucrative and reportedly represent a level of financial commitment Ajoie have not previously made to a player.
- Kristian Tanus has 20 points, including five goals, in 16 games and is Ajoie’s leading scorer as well as the National League’s third-highest scorer.
- Anttoni Honka, Ajoie’s captain, has recorded 14 points, including seven goals, in 16 games.
- EV Zug are reportedly showing strong interest in signing 26-year-old Anttoni Honka.
- Honka praised Ajoie supporters after they displayed a Finnish-language banner during the home game against Genève-Servette HC.
IHM Discussion
Ajoie’s effort to retain Tanus and Honka is built around more than sentiment. Their production has been central to the club’s opening 16 games, with Tanus carrying the scoring lead and Honka providing unusually strong output from the blue line while wearing the captaincy.
The proposed extensions also underline how highly Ajoie value the pair. If the reported scale of the offers is unprecedented for the club, retaining both Finns would be a significant commitment rather than a routine piece of contract business. The situation around Honka appears especially delicate because reported interest from EV Zug gives the defenceman another potential National League option.
The supporters’ banner offered a visible reminder that the players’ impact is being felt beyond the scoresheet. Honka’s response suggested that the gesture registered with him, though it does not settle the contractual question facing the club.
Why It Matters
Keeping Tanus and Honka would preserve two major sources of Ajoie’s early-season production. Tanus is among the league’s leading scorers, while Honka’s seven goals and 14 points add substantial offence from defence.
The challenge is that a strong start can increase a player’s appeal elsewhere. With EV Zug reportedly interested in Honka, Ajoie’s offer must compete in a National League market rather than simply reflect what the captain has already meant to the team.
Mini Q&A
Who does HC Ajoie want to keep?
HC Ajoie have reportedly offered extensions to forward Kristian Tanus and captain Anttoni Honka.
How have Kristian Tanus and Anttoni Honka performed this season?
Tanus has 20 points in 16 games, while Honka has 14 points in 16 games, including seven goals.
Which club is reportedly interested in Anttoni Honka?
EV Zug are reportedly showing strong interest in the 26-year-old Ajoie defenceman.
Coach Mark Comment
The seven goals beside Anttoni Honka’s name are the part of this that changes the conversation. A captain who can contribute from the back end in that way gives a bench another route into a game, particularly when the forwards are being watched closely. It is not just the total; it is the sort of output that makes an opposing team account for a defenceman whenever the puck moves to the blue line.
That helps explain why Ajoie have made such a substantial reported effort to keep him and why another National League club may be interested. The supporters’ banner was a warm gesture, but it also showed that people have recognised the value of what Honka and Tanus have created together in 16 games.
IHM Final View
Ajoie have made their intention clear: Tanus and Honka are players they want to retain. The financial scale of the reported offers reflects the importance of their early contribution, but Honka’s reported market interest means the club’s work is not finished. For now, Ajoie have two in-form Finnish players at the heart of their season and a significant decision ahead.