Tag: Jokerit

HIFK lose to Lukko in overtime as Tappara build early lead over Jokerit

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Helsingin IFK lost at home to Lukko 2-3 in overtime after surrendering a 2-0 lead that had stood until the middle of the second period. Alex Beaucage scored the overtime winner for Lukko. In a separate game, Tappara took control against Jokerit at the Veikkaus-areena, leading 0-3 after the first period; Jyrki Jokipakka assisted Tappara’s opening strike and Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen had given Tappara a three-goal cushion by 8:38 of the first.

Key Facts

  • Helsingin IFK lost at home to Lukko 2-3 in overtime.
  • HIFK led 2-0 until approximately the middle of the second period before Lukko levelled the game.
  • Jokerit’s poor home form continued at the Veikkaus-areena as they trailed Tappara.
  • Tappara led Jokerit 0-3 after the first period.
  • Jyrki Jokipakka assisted Tappara’s opening goal shortly after the game began.
  • By 8:38 of the first period Tappara were already 0-3 ahead, with goals from Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen.

IHM Discussion

A difficult night for the Helsinki clubs. HIFK let a 2-0 lead slip before Alex Beaucage settled the game for Lukko in overtime. The result continued HIFK’s poor start to the season and showed how quickly a strong position can disappear. Jokerit were also chasing the game from the outset after Tappara established a 0-3 lead in the opening period.

Why It Matters

HIFK had a 2-0 lead through the middle of the second period but came away with an overtime defeat, adding to their difficult start to the season. Jokerit faced an immediate test after Tappara’s rapid three-goal opening, while Tappara gave themselves a commanding position early in the game.

Mini Q&A

What was the result between HIFK and Lukko?

HIFK lost to Lukko 2-3 in overtime.

Who scored the overtime winner for Lukko?

Alex Beaucage scored the overtime winner for Lukko.

How did Tappara get ahead of Jokerit?

Tappara built a 0-3 lead by the end of the first period; Jyrki Jokipakka assisted the opening goal and Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen also scored, giving Tappara a three-goal cushion by 8:38 of the first.

Are the Helsinki teams showing good form?

No; the reports describe HIFK’s season start as poor and note that Jokerit’s poor performances at the Veikkaus-areena continued.

Valtonen cautious over Jokerit’s goaltending situation

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit head coach Tomek Valtonen kept his answers brief after his team’s 2-4 loss to JYP, declining to single out goaltending as the primary cause. Jokerit have lost every game played under Valtonen so far this season, and their goaltending has been under scrutiny after Veini Vehviläinen was replaced after two periods against JYP and Olle Eriksson Ek was replaced in an earlier game against Lukko. Eriksson Ek also left the JYP game injured following a skirmish in front of the net, forcing Vehviläinen back into goal for the final four minutes. Valtonen said the club must analyse the situation carefully and avoid hasty decisions; rumours suggest Jokerit may be searching for another goaltender.

Key Facts

  • Tomek Valtonen is head coach of Jokerit and spoke to media after the loss to JYP.
  • Jokerit lost to JYP 2-4.
  • Jokerit have lost all of their opening-season matches under Valtonen.
  • Veini Vehviläinen was pulled after conceding two goals in the second period against JYP.
  • Olle Eriksson Ek replaced Vehviläinen and later left the game injured after a skirmish in front of the net.
  • In an earlier game at Rauma against Lukko, Olle Eriksson Ek was removed mid-game after five goals had been conceded in the second period.
  • Both of Jokerit’s goaltenders have been replaced during games in the club’s first four matches.
  • Valtonen said: ” We win as a team and we lose as a team; it is not my task to dissect the reasons for a loss here.”
  • Valtonen confirmed the decision to change the goaltender was made during the game:” That decision was made at the point that we would change the goaltender.”
  • Valtonen on fitness and selection: ” Let’s see what the health situation is; we’ll be wiser tomorrow.”
  • Valtonen said of Eriksson Ek: ” I don’t know what his condition is; he couldn’t play on after the incident even though he tried.”
  • Reportedly, rumours that Jokerit are searching for a new goaltender following the poor early-season form.

IHM Discussion

The immediate issue is simple and persistent: Jokerit’s two goaltenders have both been replaced during the club’s opening four matches. That creates a short-term selection problem and raises longer-term roster questions. Valtonen’s public posture is deliberately collective – “We win as a team and we lose as a team” – and he refused to single out the netminders as the decisive factor in the JYP defeat. Still, Vehviläinen was replaced after two relatively straightforward goals in the second period; in another recent game, Eriksson Ek was withdrawn after five goals were conceded in the second period. In the JYP game, Eriksson Ek’s later injury meant Vehviläinen had to return for the final four minutes.

The coaching staff must now weigh form and fitness when deciding how to use Vehviläinen and Eriksson Ek. Valtonen stressed the need for careful analysis rather than hasty decisions, while the reported search for another goaltender adds to the uncertainty. Eriksson Ek’s inability to continue also leaves his immediate availability unclear; Valtonen offered no timetable.

Jokerit are still seeking their first win under Valtonen, increasing scrutiny across the line-up. Goaltending is especially visible in that assessment, but Valtonen’s comments made clear that he does not view it in isolation.

Why It Matters

Goaltending stability can help a team establish consistency. Repeated in-game changes leave Jokerit with difficult decisions over form, fitness and the next starter. If the club cannot settle its options in net, scrutiny will continue to grow around a side still seeking its first win under Valtonen. A clear plan, whether internal or involving a potential addition, would give the team a firmer basis for its next steps; any move for another goaltender remains unconfirmed.

Mini Q&A

Who is speaking for Jokerit about the goaltending situation?

Head coach Tomek Valtonen spoke to the media after the loss to JYP.

What happened to Jokerit’s goalkeepers in the JYP game?

Veini Vehviläinen was replaced after two periods, Olle Eriksson Ek came in and later left injured, and Vehviläinen returned for the final minutes.

Have both Jokerit goalkeepers been pulled in other games this season?

Yes. Reportedly, both Veini Vehviläinen and Olle Eriksson Ek have been replaced mid-game during Jokerit’s first four matches; Eriksson Ek was also removed in the game at Lukko after five second-period goals.

Will Jokerit look for another goaltender?

Reportedly, rumours that Jokerit are searching for a new goaltender, but Valtonen said the club will analyse the situation carefully and avoid hasty decisions.

What is the immediate next development to watch?

Valtonen said the club would review the health situation and be wiser the following day. Eriksson Ek’s availability and the next goaltender decision are the immediate points to follow.

Coach Mark Comment

The immediate coaching task is clarity. Jokerit need to assess Eriksson Ek’s availability, review both goaltenders’ recent shifts and give the group a clear plan for the next start. Goalie changes can disrupt a bench, so the focus should be on the details in front of the net as well as the save itself. Any decision on an outside addition should follow that review rather than a reaction to one difficult night.

What Comes Next

The next goaltender decision, and Eriksson Ek’s availability, are the immediate points to follow.

IHM Final View

Valtonen’s cautious responses reflect a situation that needs a measured assessment. With Jokerit still without a win under their coach and Eriksson Ek’s availability unclear, the club needs a coherent plan for its goaltender usage. Any search for outside help remains a matter of rumour.

Jokerit return home but lose 4-2 as JYP extend perfect start

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit returned to their Helsinki arena for a Liiga home game but were beaten 4-2 by visiting JYP. Jokerit struck first – just 14 seconds into the match – but JYP responded and ultimately took the points. The contest featured two goalkeeper changes for Jokerit, on-ice altercations, video-review drama and prominent tifos from the home support; JYP remain perfect in their early-season run.

Key Facts

  • Final score: JYP 4, Jokerit 2.
  • Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the match.
  • Jere Lassila scored for JYP at 4:42 and is identified as JYP captain and an involved player.
  • Max Krogdahl scored a goal for Jokerit after returning from a second-period penalty; the goal was confirmed by video review.
  • The match included two Jokerit goalkeeper changes: Veini Vehviläinen started in net for Jokerit; Olle Eriksson Ek was substituted in for the third period but was unable to continue after a collision.
  • The game featured physical incidents and a skirmish after JYP’s second goal.
  • Home supporters presented tifos during the match and also displayed shoes in the crowd.

IHM Discussion

The match swung quickly. Jokerit’s opener after 14 seconds offered a dream start on their Liiga return to the home arena, but JYP hit back and took the points. Jokerit’s two goaltender changes were a major thread in the game: Veini Vehviläinen started, while Olle Eriksson Ek entered in the third period but could not continue after a collision. Physicality, a video-reviewed goal and the home crowd’s tifos gave the night plenty beyond the final score.

Why It Matters

JYP’s victory maintains their flawless start to the season and shows they can take points on the road. For Jokerit, an opening goal after 14 seconds was not enough to secure a home result, while the two goaltender changes added another significant complication to an eventful night.

Mini Q&A

Who won the game and what was the score?

JYP won 4-2.

When did Jokerit score the opening goal?

Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the match.

Which Jokerit goalkeepers were involved?

Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for Jokerit and Olle Eriksson Ek was substituted in for the third period but was unable to continue after a collision.

Were there any notable incidents?

Yes – the match featured on-ice scuffles after JYP’s second goal, two goalkeeper changes for Jokerit and prominent tifos from the crowd, including spectators displaying shoes.

What does this mean for JYP’s start to the season?

The win continued JYP’s perfect start to the season.

Coach Mark Comment

An early goal should allow a team to settle into its game, but this one became increasingly fractured. For Jokerit, the priority in a similarly physical match is to keep shifts short, manage the puck cleanly and retain defensive structure when momentum turns.

IHM Final View

JYP’s perfect early run continues, while Jokerit’s home return will be remembered for its atmosphere, goaltender changes and physical edge as much as the result. The home side made the ideal start but could not turn it into points.

Jokerit return home as JYP hand them 4-2 loss amid protests

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit returned to their home arena for a Liiga fixture but suffered a 4-2 defeat to visiting JYP. The match contained an early opening goal from Jokerit at 14 seconds, Jere Lassila’s leveller at 4.42, two changes in net for Jokerit, a later inability of Olle Eriksson Ek to continue after contact, and on-ice skirmishes. Fans filled the stands with tifos and other displays when the home side could not find victory.

Key Facts

  • Final score: JYP 4-2 Jokerit.
  • Jokerit returned to their familiar home arena for this Liiga match.
  • Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the game.
  • Jere Lassila scored at 4.42, described as his first of the evening.
  • Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for the home side.
  • Olle Eriksson Ek was involved in contact late in the game and tried to continue but was unable to play on afterwards.
  • There were two goaltender changes reported in the match for Jokerit.
  • Max Krogdahl received a penalty in the second period and scored a goal seconds after the penalty ended; the goal was upheld after a video review.
  • JYP captain Jere Lassila was centrally involved in a third-period incident that left Emil Kuusela on top of Jokerit’s goalkeeper.
  • The game featured brief physical altercations between players, and supporters displayed tifos and other messages in the crowd, including shoes being waved in the stands.

IHM Discussion

Jokerit had heavy crowd support but finished with a home defeat. The game began at speed, with the hosts scoring after 14 seconds before Jere Lassila replied for JYP at 4.42. Jokerit made two goaltender changes, while a stoppage followed contact involving Olle Eriksson Ek in the third period. Max Krogdahl’s second-period equaliser, scored seconds after his penalty expired, stood after video review, and tempers flared after JYP’s second goal. The crowd’s tifos and shoe-waving added a pointed backdrop to a difficult night for the hosts.

Why It Matters

The result denied Jokerit points in their Liiga return to their familiar home arena. JYP, who had won all of their early-season games, added another victory, while Jokerit were left to reflect on a match shaped by quick scoring, changes in goal and physical flashpoints.

Fan Pulse

The home crowd was loud and highly visible, presenting large tifos and other displays throughout the match. When the result went against Jokerit, supporters continued to make their views known in the stands – even waving shoes – a clear sign of frustration with the team’s form early in the campaign.

Mini Q&A

Who won the match and what was the final score?

JYP won the match; the final score was 4-2.

Where did the game take place?

The game took place at Jokerit’s home arena in Helsinki, during Jokerit’s return to their home venue.

Who scored the opening goal and how quickly?

Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the game.

Which goalkeeper started for Jokerit?

Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for Jokerit.

Were there any notable incidents during the game?

Yes. Jokerit made two goaltender changes, there were skirmishes after JYP’s second goal, and Olle Eriksson Ek was unable to continue after contact in the third period. Fans also displayed tifos and waved shoes in the stands.

Was any goal subject to video review?

Yes. A goal by Max Krogdahl was reviewed and ultimately upheld after video review.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching standpoint, two goaltender changes in one game demand a calm response from the skaters in front of the crease. The physical incidents also make composure important: teams need to stay connected through stoppages and keep their focus on the next shift.

IHM Final View

Jokerit’s homecoming did not produce the result they wanted. JYP took a 4-2 win in a game of rapid scoring, a video-reviewed goal, goaltender changes and physical flashpoints, while the home crowd made its feelings visible throughout the evening.

Jokerit lose Teemu Turunen for an estimated 6-8 weeks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit have confirmed a significant absence from their early-season squad: 30-year-old winger Teemu Turunen is expected to miss roughly 6-8 weeks, the club said in its weekly update on Monday. Turunen had returned to his youth club for this season and registered three assists in Jokerit’s opening three games before being ruled out.

The club’s update also lists defenceman Olli Juolevi with an estimated 4-6 weeks on the sidelines. Jokerit, still seeking their first victory of the campaign, will also be without Miks Tumānovs for their next match due to a one-game suspension.

Key Facts

  • Teemu Turunen is a 30-year-old winger.
  • Jokerit estimate Turunen will be out of the lineup for approximately 6-8 weeks, according to the club’s weekly update.
  • Turunen returned to his youth club, Jokerit, for this season.
  • Turunen collected three assists in Jokerit’s first three games of the season.
  • Turunen previously won the Liiga goal scoring title with Kärpät in 2023-24.
  • Turunen won the Finnish championship with HPK in spring 2019.
  • Defenceman Olli Juolevi is also on Jokerit’s absence list, with an estimated absence of 4-6 weeks.
  • Jokerit remain without a victory so far this season.
  • Jokerit play their next match on Thursday, their first home game of the season, against JYP.
  • Miks Tumānovs will not play in that JYP match due to a one-game suspension.

IHM Discussion

Losing Teemu Turunen for an extended spell is a clear early blow for Jokerit. He made an immediate offensive contribution with three assists in as many games; his absence removes an attacking option from a team that has yet to find a first victory.

Turunen’s Liiga goal-scoring title with Kärpät in 2023-24 and Finnish championship with HPK in 2019 underline the experience Jokerit lose while he is sidelined. The timing adds to the challenge during an opening stretch in which teams are establishing momentum and combinations.

Jokerit’s defensive depth is also affected. Olli Juolevi is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, meaning the coaching staff may need to reshuffle lines and defensive pairings while relying on the available depth players.

Why It Matters

Turunen’s absence deprives Jokerit of a player who had immediately supplied points. With the team still searching for its first win, the coming weeks will test its depth and coaching adjustments while Turunen and Juolevi are sidelined.

Mini Q&A

How long will Teemu Turunen be out?

Jokerit estimate Turunen will be sidelined for approximately 6-8 weeks.

What impact had Turunen made before his absence?

After returning to Jokerit this season, Turunen had recorded three assists in the team’s first three games.

Are any other Jokerit players unavailable?

Yes. Defenceman Olli Juolevi is also listed as out for an estimated 4-6 weeks, and Miks Tumānovs will miss the next game because of a one-game suspension.

When is Jokerit’s next match and who do they play?

Jokerit play their next game on Thursday, their first home match of the season, against JYP.

What Comes Next

Jokerit’s next fixture is on Thursday, their first home game of the season, against JYP. Miks Tumānovs is unavailable for that match because of a one-game suspension.

Sport spoil Jokerit’s Liiga return with 5-4 shootout win

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Sport spoiled Jokerit‘s Liiga return by beating the visitors 5-4 in a shootout on 1 September 2026. The score was 4-4 after the eight goals scored in play, before Sport’s new No. 17, George Diaco, converted twice in the shootout. Eetu Tuulola scored Jokerit’s first Liiga goal in some time. The atmosphere was loud throughout, with Sport supporters greeting the visitors with banners, including one depicting Vladimir Putin.

Key Facts

  • Sport beat Jokerit 5-4 after a shootout.
  • The score was 4-4 after the eight goals scored in play before the shootout.
  • George Diaco, wearing Sport’s new No. 17, scored twice in the shootout and was described as the evening’s hero.
  • Eetu Tuulola scored Jokerit’s first Liiga goal in some time.
  • There were eight goals scored during play (i.e., before the shootout).
  • Sport supporters greeted the visitors with banners, and a banner featuring Vladimir Putin was reported among them.
  • Sport’s new coach Lauri Mikkola received his baptism in charge, noted for wearing a red tie.
  • Sport and Jokerit’s previous competitive meeting took place on 12 February 1989 in I divisioona, when Jokerit beat Sport 13-1.

IHM Discussion

Sport denied Jokerit a winning return to Liiga in front of a loud home crowd. Eight goals were scored in play, leaving the teams level before the shootout, where Diaco converted twice to settle the result.

The occasion carried as much weight as the scoreline. Sport supporters greeted the visitors with banners, while the home side celebrated a victory in Lauri Mikkola’s first game as the club’s new coach. Jokerit had goals to show for their return, including Tuulola’s first Liiga goal in some time, but Sport took the extra point in the shootout. A banner depicting Vladimir Putin was also visible among the crowd.

Why It Matters

Sport opened at home with a shootout victory over a returning Jokerit side, giving Mikkola a winning first game as coach. For Jokerit, the result showed they could score in their Liiga return, but they left Vaasa without the shootout win. The loud crowd and banners underlined the significance of the occasion for the home support.

Mini Q&A

What was the final result?

Sport defeated Jokerit 5-4 after a shootout.

When was the match played?

The report is dated 1 September 2026 and describes the match taking place on that day.

Who was the match hero?

Sport’s new No. 17, George Diaco, scored twice in the shootout and was named the evening’s hero.

IHM Final View

Sport marked their home opener with a 5-4 shootout win over Jokerit. Eight goals were scored in play, but Diaco’s two successful shootout attempts proved decisive in a loud Vaasa atmosphere.

Liiga’s 17-team season begins as Jokerit return and Tappara lead the forecasts

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Liiga begins its exceptional 17-team season on 1 September 2026. One club will be crowned champion and three will be relegated. The season preview includes more than 50 features, columns and interviews; Tappara lead the title forecasts, while Jokerit return to Liiga after nearly 12 years away.

Key Facts

  • Liiga’s 17-team season begins on 1 September 2026.
  • One team will be crowned champion and three will be relegated at the end of the season.
  • The season preview comprises more than 50 Liiga features, columns and interviews.
  • Tappara are the leading title favourites in the published forecasts.
  • Jokerit return to Liiga after nearly 12 years away, having spent the previous three seasons in Mestis.
  • One preview assessment says Jokerit have prioritised their attack at the expense of other areas of the roster.
  • Kärpät’s player budget is described as being in the region of €3.9 million.
  • HIFK have undergone significant change, with their goaltending tandem viewed positively and questions remaining at centre.
  • KooKoo retained a large part of last season’s core.
  • JYP continue with the same coaching staff and core, while Harri Pesonen returns to Liiga after 14 years away.
  • Pelicans strengthened their attack, though the fitness of key defencemen remains a concern.
  • Lukko have replaced departing players to a degree, but questions remain over their defence and coaching record after last season’s play-off collapse.

IHM Discussion

The expanded league and three relegation places raise the stakes across the table. Tappara begin as the leading favourites on the strength of their continuity and roster quality. Jokerit’s return after three Mestis seasons adds a major storyline, although one preview assessment argues that their attack has been built at the expense of other areas.

Why It Matters

Three relegation places put greater pressure on clubs throughout the lower half of the table. Jokerit’s return brings a prominent Helsinki club back to Liiga, while Kärpät’s reported player budget underlines the differences in financial resources across the league without guaranteeing results on the ice.

Mini Q&A

When does Liiga’s 2026-27 season begin?

It begins on 1 September 2026.

How many teams are in Liiga this season?

Liiga has 17 teams.

How many teams will be relegated?

Three teams will be relegated.

Which club leads the title forecasts?

Tappara are the leading title favourites in the published forecasts.

Which major club returns to Liiga, and after how long away?

Jokerit return after nearly 12 years away, having spent the previous three seasons in Mestis.

What does the preview say about club finances?

Kärpät’s player budget is described as being in the region of €3.9 million.

Coach Mark Comment

With three relegation places, teams near the bottom will need reliable five-on-five structure and disciplined special teams from the opening weeks. For the contenders, continuity and a dependable goaltending tandem can be decisive over a long season.

IHM Final View

Liiga’s 17-team season promises a broader and more pressured race than usual. Tappara start as the leading favourites, while Jokerit’s return and three relegation places add further intrigue from the opening face-off.