Story Summary
Joonas Nättinen has joined Iserlohn Roosters, continuing his career in Germany with the DEL club after captaining Ilves last season.
The 35-year-old forward played 50 games for Ilves last term, recording three goals and nine assists for 12 points. Iserlohn sporting director Franz-David Fritzmeier said Nättinen had shown he could shoulder responsibility at the highest level and handle pressure, adding that the club expects him to lead on the ice.
Nättinen will be reunited with Peter Quenneville, who also represented Ilves last season. The Canadian has made the strongest points start among Iserlohn players, with two goals and four assists in eight games.
Key Facts
- Joonas Nättinen has signed for DEL club Iserlohn Roosters after last season with Ilves.
- Nättinen captained Ilves last season and posted 3+9=12 in 50 games.
- Iserlohn sporting director Franz-David Fritzmeier said Nättinen is expected to provide leadership on the ice.
- Nättinen was part of Finland’s Olympic gold-medal team in 2022 and has played one NHL game.
- Former Ilves player Peter Quenneville is already at Iserlohn, where he has 2+4=6 through eight games.
IHM Discussion
Iserlohn have added a forward with significant experience of high-pressure hockey. Nättinen’s production at Ilves was limited last season, but the Roosters are bringing him in with an expectation that he can contribute more than points alone.
Fritzmeier’s emphasis on responsibility, pressure management and versatility sets out the role the club sees for Nättinen. His arrival also gives him an immediate connection within the dressing room through Quenneville, his former Ilves team-mate.
Why It Matters
The move takes a recent Liiga captain into the DEL and reunites two players from last season’s Ilves squad. For Iserlohn, Nättinen’s experience includes Olympic gold with Finland in 2022 as well as a brief NHL appearance, while Quenneville has already supplied six points in eight games for the German club.