Tag: JYP

Petri Matikainen Reportedly Staying at JYP in 2027-28

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Petri Matikainen will reportedly continue as JYP head coach in the 2027-28 season, extending his time behind the Liiga club’s bench beyond his current contract.

Matikainen’s existing agreement is due to expire after the present season. The 59-year-old is in his second campaign coaching JYP, who have made a strong start to the autumn with seven wins from 10 matches and sit fifth in Liiga.

JYP’s position requires context: Jukurit, directly above them, have played four more games, while Kärpät have played three more. JYP are also regarded as one of Liiga’s leading championship candidates.

The next fixture is a home game against Lukko on Wednesday.

Key Facts

  • Petri Matikainen is reportedly due to remain JYP head coach for the 2027-28 season.
  • Matikainen’s current JYP contract expires after this season.
  • The 59-year-old is coaching JYP for a second season.
  • JYP have won seven of their opening 10 Liiga matches and are fifth in the standings.
  • Jukurit have played four more matches than JYP, while Kärpät have played three more.
  • Matikainen passed 600 Liiga regular-season games as a coach in early October.
  • His coaching experience also includes the KHL, Switzerland, Austria and Finland’s national-team coaching staff, with whom he won the World Championship in spring 2011.

IHM Discussion

The reported decision offers JYP continuity at a point when the club’s early results have placed it firmly in the upper portion of the Liiga table. Matikainen’s experience is substantial: his domestic regular-season milestone underlines the depth of his work in Finland, while his roles abroad and with Finland’s coaching staff broaden that background.

The immediate picture remains defined by a small number of games and an uneven schedule around JYP. Seven victories from 10 is a positive opening, but the differing number of matches played by nearby teams means the standings should be read with that context in mind. The reported plan for 2027-28 nevertheless gives a clear indication that JYP intend to retain Matikainen beyond the expiry of his present deal.

Why It Matters

For JYP, the reported continuation would preserve the coach leading a promising start to the season. It also removes uncertainty around the head-coaching position beyond the current contract, while allowing attention to remain on the Liiga campaign and Wednesday’s home meeting with Lukko.

JYP’s Santeri Huovila stretchered off after leg incident

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

JYP forward Santeri Huovila was stretchered off after a frightening incident in the second period, when he stumbled during an attacking play and his left leg became trapped beneath him. Huovila, who wore JYP’s golden helmet in the game, has one goal and seven assists in six games this season. Last season, his campaign was cut short by an upper-body injury that required surgery in November, limiting him to 33 regular-season games.

Key Facts

  • Santeri Huovila was stretchered off the ice following an incident in the second period when his left leg folded badly.
  • The incident occurred at 26:30 of the second period, during an attacking sequence in which Huovila failed on a shot, stumbled and his left leg became trapped under his body.
  • Slow-motion footage indicated that Huovila’s left knee was subjected to considerable stress in the incident.
  • Huovila was wearing JYP’s golden helmet in the match.
  • This season Huovila has recorded 1+7 in six games for JYP.
  • Last season Huovila’s campaign ended early after an upper-body injury that required surgery in November; he played 33 regular-season games that year.

IHM Discussion

The sight of Santeri Huovila being stretchered off is stark given his early-season form and recent injury history. Wearing JYP’s golden helmet, he has supplied eight points in six games. His attacking play ended with a stumble that left his left leg trapped beneath him, while slow-motion footage indicated considerable stress around the left knee.

No diagnosis or return timetable was given. Huovila’s production and the fact that last season’s surgery-limited campaign lasted only 33 regular-season games underline the concern for both player and club.

Why It Matters

Huovila’s status matters because he has been among JYP’s leading point producers to date and wore the golden helmet in the game. His early scoring rate makes his availability significant for JYP’s short-term offence and depth. No diagnosis or timetable was given, leaving any lineup implications uncertain.

JYP lose Juuso Puustinen for 1-2 weeks following collision

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

JYP have announced that forward Juuso Puustinen will be sidelined for the next 1-2 weeks and defenceman Väinö Liikonen for 4-5 weeks. Puustinen was injured in last week’s game against Jokerit after a collision with Norwegian defenceman Max Krogdahl; he flew over Krogdahl, struck his head on the boards and was escorted off the ice to the dressing room before being taken to hospital. Head coach Petri Matikainen said Puustinen’s helmet split on impact. Puustinen has played four games this season without a point; Liikonen has five games and no points. JYP face HIFK on Friday night.

Key Facts

  • JYP announced Juuso Puustinen is out for 1-2 weeks.
  • Puustinen was injured in last week’s game against Jokerit following contact with Max Krogdahl.
  • Puustinen flew over Krogdahl and struck his head on the boards; he was led off the ice to the dressing room and taken to hospital.
  • JYP head coach Petri Matikainen said Puustinen’s helmet split on impact.
  • Puustinen has appeared in four games this season with no points.
  • JYP are due to play HIFK on Friday night.

IHM Discussion

JYP have set short-term absence timelines for two players: Puustinen is expected to miss 1-2 weeks and Liikonen 4-5 weeks. Puustinen’s absence follows a collision against Jokerit in which he struck his head on the boards and was taken to hospital. Matikainen said the forward’s helmet split on impact. Liikonen’s longer absence removes a defensive option for several weeks, while the stated timelines do not amount to fixed return dates.

Why It Matters

Puustinen’s absence reduces JYP’s forward options, while Liikonen’s longer lay-off affects the defensive group over the coming weeks. Ahead of Friday night’s trip to HIFK, JYP may need to adjust their line-up to cover both absences.

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.

Alexander True’s two assists steer JYP to 4-3 win

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Alexander True played a decisive role as JYP Jyväskylä claimed a dramatic 4-3 away victory over Kärpät. The Danish forward supplied two assists, both to his regular linemate Aaro Vidgren: an early set-up at about 25 seconds into the game and a late, precise pass that led to an empty-net goal in the closing stages. Kärpät pulled their goalie and scored in the absolute final seconds, but JYP’s lead held and the visitors took the three points.

Key Facts

  • Alexander True recorded two assists in JYP Jyväskylä’s 4-3 away win over Kärpät.
  • True’s first assist came around 25 seconds into the game, finding Aaro Vidgren for a 1-0 lead.
  • In the closing stages, with Kärpät having pulled their goaltender, True passed to an unguarded Aaro Vidgren who scored into the empty net to make it 4-2.
  • Kärpät scored in the absolute final seconds to reduce the deficit to 4-3, but JYP kept the victory and secured three points.
  • True had previously produced a goal and an assist against Kärpät in last season’s meeting between the sides.

IHM Discussion

True’s influence on the result was clear: he helped set the tone with an assist inside the opening minute and later found Aaro Vidgren for the empty-net goal. Their connection provided JYP with two crucial goals in a tight away game. Kärpät’s decision to pull the goaltender in search of an equaliser created space at the other end, and True and Vidgren made it count.

Why It Matters

For JYP, the victory delivered three points from a tight away game. For True, it was another productive outing against Kärpät after he recorded a goal and an assist against the same opponent last season. The match also showed the value of quick execution and established combinations in close games.

Mini Q&A

How many assists did Alexander True have in the match?

Alexander True registered two assists in JYP’s 4-3 away victory over Kärpät.

Who scored the opening goal and who assisted?

Aaro Vidgren scored the opening goal, with Alexander True assisting on the play about 25 seconds into the game.

Did Kärpät score after pulling their goalie?

Kärpät pulled their goaltender late and scored in the final seconds to make it 4-3, but JYP still secured the win.

Has True previously produced against Kärpät?

Yes.

Coach Mark Comment

A pair who read each other well can change the feel of a game. True’s early vision and late composure to find Vidgren underlines how timing and decision-making win tight matches. When an opponent pulls their goalie, the defending team must still manage the risk of counterattacks; JYP’s execution on that counter showed discipline and awareness.

IHM Final View

True’s two assists were central to JYP’s tight away win, with Vidgren finishing both plays. The early opener and late empty-net goal gave JYP the edge they needed to take three points.

JYP posts €905,861 loss despite record €9m turnover

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

JYP’s parent company, JYP Jyväskylä Oy, reported a loss of €905,861 for the most recent financial year, down from a €1.3 million deficit a year earlier. Turnover rose from €7.1 million to €9 million, the highest figure in JYP Hockey Oy’s history, with increased ticket and season-ticket sales among the contributing factors. Chief executive Risto Korpela welcomed the revenue improvement and the return of spectators, but said expenses remain too high relative to income.

Key Facts

  • JYP Jyväskylä Oy recorded a loss of €905,861 in the latest financial year.
  • The previous year’s loss was €1.3 million.
  • The company’s turnover increased from €7.1 million to €9 million.
  • €9 million is the highest turnover in JYP Hockey Oy’s history.
  • The revenue rise was influenced by growth in ticket and season-ticket sales.
  • JYP CEO Risto Korpela said the record turnover and returning audience are positive, but that costs remain too high relative to income.

IHM Discussion

The figures present a mixed picture for the Liiga club. Turnover reaching €9 million for the first time in JYP Hockey Oy’s history is a notable commercial milestone, with ticketing explicitly cited among the drivers. Reducing the annual loss from €1.3 million to €905,861 is progress in absolute terms, but the club remains in the red. Korpela’s comments underline the central challenge: revenue growth has not yet offset costs, leaving JYP to turn improved income into a more sustainable result.

Why It Matters

For supporters and stakeholders, the figures show both recovery and restraint. Higher turnover and improved attendance point to renewed momentum around the club, while the continued deficit underlines the need to bring costs closer to income. Financial stability remains important to JYP’s long-term competitiveness in Liiga.

JYP preview: star-laden attack, defensive additions and goalie doubts

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

JYP begin Petri Matikainen’s second season with largely the same core but targeted reinforcements. The attack is largely intact – Santeri Huovila, Jere Lassila, Leevi Tukiainen and Valtteri Ojantakanen return alongside Juuso Puustinen, Daniel Torgersson and Alexander True – and Olympic champion Harri Pesonen arrives to add experience. Juuso Arola, Malte Setkov and Veeti Väisänen have joined the defence, while Teemu Eronen’s fitness is a concern. In net, Oskari Salminen is listed as the expected number one after an inconsistent previous season, backed by 32-year-old Oskari Setänen and 20-year-old Otto Hannikainen. JYP also face a month-long opening run of away games while their arena is renovated.

Key Facts

  • Petri Matikainen continues as JYP head coach into his second season.
  • Most of JYP’s core forwards from last season remain: Santeri Huovila, Jere Lassila, Leevi Tukiainen, Valtteri Ojantakanen, Daniel Torgersson, Alexander True and Juuso Puustinen.
  • Harri Pesonen, an Olympic champion and a major signing in the squad preview, has joined JYP and appears set for a role in the leading lines.
  • New arrivals also include Reece Newkirk (25, from the ECHL), Arvid Costmar (25, one-year contract) and Juuso Arola (from Jukurit).
  • Defensive additions are Malte Setkov (27, from the Danish top league), Veeti Väisänen (signed from Canadian junior hockey) and Juuso Arola.
  • Tobias Winberg left for the Czech top league; Joona Lehmus and Juuso Pulli did not receive new contracts.
  • Teemu Eronen missed much of last season through several injuries and is currently rehabilitating outside the team’s activities; his fitness is a key question for the defence.
  • Malte Setkov is over two metres tall, has been a regular in the Danish national team and scored more than 30 points in each of the past three Danish seasons; he is expected to be used on the penalty kill.
  • In practice pairings, Arola has been partnered with Trent Bourque, and Setkov with Väinö Liikonen.
  • Defensive role map listed: Sami Vatanen, Juuso Arola and Teemu Eronen on the power play; Eetu Peltola, Väinö Liikonen, Trent Bourque and Malte Setkov on the penalty kill.
  • JYP projects seven regular playing defencemen, with Ossi-Veikka Vuontisvaara and Veeti Väisänen likely to play also for KeuPa HT if necessary.
  • Oskari Salminen is designated as the team’s number one goaltender despite an inconsistent previous Liiga season and generally below-average last-season numbers; Salminen is noted for streaky form with very good games followed by weak ones elsewhere in the campaign. Oskari Setänen signed a contract last autumn, is 32 years old and enters the season primarily as the backup but could receive a larger role during the campaign. Otto Hannikainen, 20, is expected to have only occasional appearances as a third goalie. JYP’s arena is under renovation, forcing the team to play its first ten matches away from home, creating an early-season challenge for taking points on the road. Juuso Puustinen is singled out as a devastating finisher and the team’s emotional leader; Valtteri Ojantakanen identified as the best shooter and Julius Korjus the fastest skater in the squad preview.

IHM Discussion

On paper, JYP have retained the group that pushed for the top four last season while adding experience and depth. Malte Setkov brings size and an established international profile to the blue line, Juuso Arola adds puck-moving ability for the power play, and Harri Pesonen strengthens an already experienced forward group alongside Reece Newkirk and Arvid Costmar.

The attack remains the club’s clearest strength, led by players who produced last season. Setkov is the most eye-catching defensive addition: a two-metre defenceman with consistent production in Denmark and international experience. The key question is how quickly that experience translates to Liiga.

The defensive rotation has clearly defined special-teams responsibilities, but Teemu Eronen’s availability remains uncertain as he rehabilitates outside team activities. That uncertainty could place greater responsibility on the other defencemen.

The central concern remains goaltending. Salminen is expected to lead the group after a mixed season, while Setänen begins primarily as the backup and Hannikainen is set for occasional third-goalie duty. JYP’s results will depend in part on more consistent goaltending and on limiting the brief defensive lapses that have led to goals against in recent seasons.

Why It Matters

JYP’s upgrades keep them as realistic contenders for a top-four finish in Liiga provided the new defenders adapt and the goalkeeping steadies. The arrival of Harri Pesonen brings high-end experience and match-winning capacity, which could swing close games. Conversely, an unsettled goaltending situation or a prolonged recovery for Teemu Eronen would reduce the team’s margin for error. Playing the first ten games away will test the squad’s character early and could shape momentum heading into the rest of the season.

Mini Q&A

Who is JYP’s coach for the coming season?

Petri Matikainen remains JYP’s head coach into his second season.

Is Harri Pesonen joining JYP and what does he bring?

Yes. Harri Pesonen, described as an Olympic champion in the club preview, has joined JYP and brings veteran experience and the ability to influence tight games.

What is the biggest roster question for JYP?

Goaltending is the largest uncertainty: Oskari Salminen is the expected number one despite an inconsistent previous Liiga season, with Oskari Setänen as his experienced backup and Otto Hannikainen as third option.

Which new defenders did JYP sign?

JYP signed Malte Setkov (a large, mobile Danish league defenceman), Veeti Väisänen (from Canadian junior hockey) and Juuso Arola (from Jukurit).

How will JYP start the season logistically?

Because of an arena renovation JYP will play their first ten matches away from home.

Are there any clear leaders in the squad?

Juuso Puustinen is identified as the team’s emotional leader and a lethal finisher; Eetu Peltola was named an alternate captain.

Coach Mark Comment

JYP’s forward depth gives the coaching staff options, but the opening road schedule will place a premium on reliable team defending. Clear puck-management decisions and controlled changes will be particularly important if the goaltending picture remains unsettled.

What Comes Next

JYP will begin the Liiga season with a ten-game run of away matches while their home arena is renovated. This opening road trip is a concrete early-season checkpoint for measuring the squad’s mental strength and cohesion under pressure.

IHM Final View

JYP enter the new Liiga season with a stronger roster on paper: an attack built for production, a notable addition in Setkov on defence, and experienced options in the forward group. The outlook is nevertheless cautious. The team’s ceiling is high if Salminen finds consistency and Eronen becomes available; otherwise, the demanding opening road stretch and defensive lapses remain significant concerns. JYP have the squad to challenge near the top, but goaltending and defensive consistency will shape their season.