Tag: Liiga

Goalkeepers take centre stage in Vaasa student game

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

In Vaasa’s student-themed ” haalari” game, goalkeepers took the spotlight. The 2006-born pair Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen combined for 40 saves in front of 4,148 spectators, many of them students in coveralls. The match went to overtime, where Jere Väisänen scored at 62:15 – recorded as the first and last goal of the contest.

Key Facts

  • The game drew 4,148 spectators, many of them students wearing coveralls.
  • Goaltenders Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen, both born in 2006, combined for 40 saves.
  • Härkönen had to retrieve the puck from behind him once.
  • Several minor confrontations took place early in the game.
  • Johan Sundström watched a Rimpinen save from close range.
  • Arttu Tuomaala put full flex into his stick.
  • Redi helped maintain the student-game atmosphere with antics.
  • Viljami Nieminen had a breakaway chance in overtime.
  • Iiika Kangasmäki broke through at the other end after a pass from Rimpinen.
  • At 62:15, Jere Väisänen scored what was recorded as the game’s first and final goal.
  • The Kiekko-Espoo supporters in attendance were pleased with the outcome.

IHM Discussion

Goaltending dominated the evening in Vaasa. Härkönen and Rimpinen, both born in 2006, combined for 40 saves, while early minor confrontations added some edge before the game moved into overtime. Väisänen scored at 62:15, recorded as the first and final goal of the contest.

Why It Matters

The student-themed crowd and overtime finish gave the game a distinctive atmosphere. The combined 40-save total also put the focus firmly on Härkönen and Rimpinen, while the Kiekko-Espoo supporters in attendance had reason to enjoy the outcome.

Mini Q&A

Who were the goalkeepers and how many saves did they make?

The goalkeepers were Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen, both born in 2006; they combined for 40 saves.

Who scored and when?

Jere Väisänen scored at 62:15 in overtime; it was recorded as the first and final goal of the game.

Väisänen ends 620-day drought with dramatic OT winner

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Kiekko-Espoo finally broke a long-standing 620-day drought in 3-on-3 overtime scoring when Jere Väisänen finished the winner after Ville Lajunen intercepted a Sport pass and set up a two-on-one. The decisive finish beat Sport goaltender Masi Härkönen in a game in Vaasa that produced no goals in regulation and was decided in extra time.

Key Facts

  • Kiekko-Espoo ended a 620-day streak without a 3-on-3 overtime goal.
  • Jere Väisänen scored the winning goal in overtime.
  • The scoring sequence began when Ville Lajunen intercepted a Sport player’s pass and moved the puck to Väisänen.
  • Väisänen finished the chance by shooting past Sport goalie Masi Härkönen.
  • The match in Vaasa produced no goals during regulation and was decided in overtime.
  • Last season Kiekko-Espoo won only once in overtime during the Liiga regular season and lost nine times.
  • Kiekko-Espoo’s only regular-season overtime win last season came against Ilves, when Matti Järvinen scored a power-play goal.
  • Kiekko-Espoo lost both of their playoff games that went to overtime last season.
  • Kiekko-Espoo’s previous 3-on-3 goal had come on 11 January 2025, when Ville Lajunen scored to beat KooKoo.
  • Later in that same season Kiekko-Espoo recorded two more overtime wins, but both were power-play goals; opponents secured three overtime wins that season, one of which was decided by a power-play goal.
  • This was Kiekko-Espoo’s second overtime game of the current season; last week SaiPa beat them with a Petrus Palmu power-play goal.

IHM Discussion

The overtime winner underlines how rare Kiekko-Espoo’s success in 3-on-3 situations has been. The club’s long run without a three-on-three goal stretched back to 11 January 2025, and their recent overtime history – a single regular-season OT win and multiple losses last year, plus two playoff OT defeats – framed this result as more than a single goal: it is a relief after repeated extra-time frustration. The finish itself was straightforward and decisive: Ville Lajunen’s interception turned defence into attack, and Väisänen’s shot beat a well-performing Sport netminder, Masi Härkönen, emphasising the importance of quick transition play in open-ice overtime.

Why It Matters

The goal ended a lengthy wait for a 3-on-3 overtime score and came after Kiekko-Espoo struggled in extra time last season. It also showed how quickly a turnover can decide a tight game: Lajunen’s interception created the two-on-one, and Väisänen supplied the finish.

Mini Q&A

Who scored Kiekko-Espoo’s overtime winner?

Jere Väisänen scored the overtime winner.

How did the overtime goal develop?

Ville Lajunen intercepted a Sport pass, moved the puck across to Jere Väisänen, who finished the two-on-one by shooting past Sport goalie Masi Härkönen.

How long had it been since Kiekko-Espoo last scored in 3-on-3 overtime?

The club had not scored a 3-on-3 overtime goal for 620 days; their previous such goal came on 11 January 2025 when Ville Lajunen scored against KooKoo.

What was Kiekko-Espoo’s recent overtime record referenced in the report?

Last season Kiekko-Espoo won only once in overtime during the regular season and lost nine times; they also lost both overtime games they played in the playoffs.

HIFK’s power play delivers in 3-1 win without Lehterä

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Helsingin IFK ended a four-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over Oulun Kärpät in the season’s first North-vs-South fixture. HIFK’s power play produced a goal even without Jori Lehterä, while Vincent Marleau scored to put HIFK 2-1 ahead – his second of the season. Kärpät’s Roni Hirvonen had earlier scored the 1-1 equaliser, while Kärpät goaltender Visa Vedenpää made several important saves in the second period. HIFK registered 17 shots on goal after managing only six against Lukko.

Key Facts

  • Helsingin IFK beat Oulun Kärpät 3-1, ending a four-game losing streak.
  • HIFK’s power play produced one goal despite Jori Lehterä not featuring.
  • Roni Hirvonen scored the 1-1 equaliser for Kärpät.
  • Vincent Marleau scored HIFK’s go-ahead goal, his second of the season.
  • Kärpät goaltender Visa Vedenpää made several standout saves in the second period.
  • HIFK had 17 shots on goal in this match versus six in the recent game against Lukko.
  • Five-on-five play favoured Kärpät, while HIFK were more threatening on the power play and in quick counterattacks.
  • Matyáš Kantner controlled the puck in HIFK’s defensive zone during a spell in which HIFK’s defensive play looked disorganised.

IHM Discussion

The result offers HIFK both immediate relief and a clearer view of where progress is real and where work remains. The team improved its offensive urgency and shot volume compared with the Lukko game, converting more possessions into chances. That is evidence that HIFK can generate opportunities without relying on one player.

Yet the match also exposed issues at five-on-five. Kärpät had the edge at even strength, although HIFK’s defence prevented them from creating the very best chances. There were moments of unclear marking and hesitant decision-making, particularly during spells when Matyáš Kantner carried the puck in the HIFK zone. Clearer defensive responsibilities would help limit those lapses.

Why It Matters

The win ends a losing run and shows that HIFK’s special teams can contribute even without Jori Lehterä. Vincent Marleau’s second goal of the season is another positive, while Kärpät goaltender Visa Vedenpää’s second-period saves kept the visitors in the game. HIFK’s five-on-five play still leaves room for improvement, so this was a step forward rather than a finished product.

Mini Q&A

Did HIFK end their losing streak?

Yes. HIFK ended a four-game losing run with a 3-1 win over Oulun Kärpät.

Was Jori Lehterä playing in the match?

No. HIFK’s power play produced a goal without Jori Lehterä in the lineup.

Who scored HIFK’s go-ahead goal?

Vincent Marleau scored to put HIFK 2-1 ahead; it was his second goal of the season.

How did Visa Vedenpää perform?

Kärpät goaltender Visa Vedenpää made several important saves in the second period, helping keep his team in the game.

Coach Mark Comment

HIFK’s power play created danger without Lehterä, but the five-on-five picture was less convincing. The next coaching priority is clearer defensive-zone communication, especially when opponents are able to carry the puck through the zone.

IHM Final View

HIFK’s 3-1 victory is a meaningful corrective after a string of defeats, with the power play providing a clear positive. Kärpät goaltender Visa Vedenpää’s saves kept the margin tight, while HIFK still need greater control at five-on-five and clearer defensive roles to build on the result.

Vincent Marleau’s double ends HIFK slump in 3-1 win

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HIFK ended a four-game losing run by beating Kärpät 3-1 in front of the home crowd. Daniel Mäkiaho opened the scoring in the opening minutes, Roni Hirvonen levelled for Kärpät after a Lassi Vanhatalo penalty, and Vincent Marleau struck twice for HIFK – including an empty-net finish – to secure the three points. The match featured a goaltender-interference penalty to Iiro Pakarinen after Mäkiaho’s goal, video review involvement from Linus Nässén and a busy night for both goalies, Hugo Alnefelt and Visa Vedenpää.

Key Facts

  • HIFK arrived at the game on a four-game losing streak following their season-opening win over HPK.
  • Daniel Mäkiaho scored to put HIFK ahead 3.5 minutes into the game.
  • Iiro Pakarinen received a two-minute penalty for goaltender interference in a sequence that also involved a video review. Linus Nässén spoke to Pakarinen during the review.
  • Lassi Vanhatalo took a penalty in the second period, and Roni Hirvonen equalised for Kärpät.
  • Vincent Marleau scored twice for HIFK, including the goal that beat Visa Vedenpää and an empty-net finish for the final margin.
  • Hugo Alnefelt was the target of late Kärpät pressure; the visitors’ attempts could not beat him before Marleau’s empty-netter sealed the result.
  • The final score was HIFK 3, Kärpät 1.
  • The crowd celebrated the win visibly after the final buzzer, with players exchanging hugs and celebrations on the ice.

IHM Discussion

This was a welcome result for HIFK after four straight defeats following their season-opening win over HPK. Daniel Mäkiaho gave the home side an early lead, but Kärpät found an equaliser through Roni Hirvonen in the second period after Lassi Vanhatalo’s penalty.

Vincent Marleau then supplied the decisive finishing. He beat Visa Vedenpää to restore HIFK’s advantage before adding an empty-net goal to complete his two-goal night. Kärpät continued to press late, but could not find another way past Hugo Alnefelt.

The game also carried plenty of edge. Iiro Pakarinen’s goaltender-interference penalty prompted a video review, while Aleksi Matinmikko and Jake Leschyshyn were involved in an unpenalised collision. HIFK ultimately found the goals and composure required to stop the losing run.

Why It Matters

The win ends HIFK’s four-game losing streak and delivers three points after a difficult spell. Mäkiaho’s early goal and Marleau’s two finishes gave the home side the scoring they needed, while Kärpät’s equaliser showed the importance of managing penalties and special-teams situations.

Mini Q&A

Who scored HIFK’s goals?

Daniel Mäkiaho opened the scoring and Vincent Marleau scored twice, including an empty-net goal.

What was the final score and who won?

HIFK won 3-1 against Kärpät.

How long had HIFK gone without a win before this match?

HIFK had lost four consecutive games after their season-opening victory over HPK.

Which players were involved in penalties that influenced the game?

Iiro Pakarinen received a two-minute penalty for goaltender interference after Mäkiaho’s goal; Lassi Vanhatalon was penalised before Roni Hirvonen’s equaliser; Maxim Korpimäki also took a penalty for Kärpät.

Who were the goalkeepers mentioned?

Hugo Alnefelt was in goal for HIFK and Visa Vedenpää for Kärpät.

Coach Mark Comment

HIFK recovered well after Kärpät’s equaliser. The key coaching positive was their ability to regain the lead rather than allowing the game to drift after the momentum shift, with Marleau providing the finish on the chances that came his way.

IHM Final View

HIFK’s 3-1 win over Kärpät stops a four-game losing run and brings a needed three points. Mäkiaho’s early opener and Marleau’s double proved enough, even after Kärpät drew level in the second period. It was a hard-fought home win and a useful response from HIFK after a difficult stretch.

Lehterä leaves HIFK as Ässät and HPK are discussed

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jori Lehterä has left HIFK, prompting speculation over his next Liiga club. Ässät and HPK are among the teams discussed, while Jokerit, Tappara and Kärpät are also raised as possible destinations. Lauri Mattila suggested Lehterä could fit between Maxime Fortier and Patrick Curry at Jokerit, while Tappara could use him as a face-off and power-play option.

Key Facts

  • Analyst Lauri Mattila lists Jokerit – Lehterä’s kasvattajaseura (youth club) – and Tappara as additional possible destinations.
  • Mattila suggests Lehterä could play between Maxime Fortier and Patrick Curry.
  • Antti Wennström proposes Kärpät as a club with a suitable role and predicts interest from Tappara or Jokerit; he also highlights HPK as a nearer, smaller-club option offering responsibility.
  • Wennström names Jarno Kultanen’s Ässät as having a genuine need for centres because of injuries.
  • Mattila says Tappara have a gap down the middle following Oiva Keskinen’s departure and suggests Lehterä could help as a face-off and power-play player.

IHM Discussion

Lehterä’s exit from HIFK has quickly opened a range of Liiga possibilities. The suggested destinations point to different uses for an experienced centre: Jokerit could pair him with Maxime Fortier and Patrick Curry, while Tappara could use his face-off and power-play qualities. HPK and Ässät are also discussed as clubs with potential need down the middle, though no move has been confirmed.

Why It Matters

Any move would affect a club’s centre depth and special-teams options. The discussion also reflects how injuries and roster needs can shape Liiga recruitment during the season, particularly for teams seeking help at centre.

Fan Pulse

Lehterä’s departure has generated discussion because several clubs can be imagined as possible fits. Jokerit offers a link to his youth club, while Tappara, Kärpät, HPK and Ässät are discussed in terms of roster needs and potential roles.

Mini Q&A

Who has left HIFK?

Jori Lehterä has left HIFK, as stated.

What role do analysts suggest Lehterä could play?

Analysts suggest Lehterä could play as an experienced starting centre and power-play specialist, specifically slotting between Maxime Fortier and Patrick Curry in one scenario.

Is Jokerit connected to Lehterä in the article?

Yes. Reportedly, Jokerit is Lehterä’s kasvattajaseura, meaning his youth club, and suggests a return there could be beneficial.

Coach Mark Comment

An experienced centre can offer value on draws and the power play, but the fit depends on deployment. A club must be clear whether it needs Lehterä to drive offence in a scoring role or to provide controlled, specialist minutes.

What Comes Next

The next development is whether any of the clubs discussed make a move for Lehterä. Until then, the destination talk remains speculation.

IHM Final View

Lehterä’s departure from HIFK has created a credible Liiga talking point, with Ässät and HPK prominent in the discussion and Jokerit, Tappara and Kärpät also mentioned. The possible fits vary, from a power-play and face-off role to greater responsibility at centre. No destination has been confirmed.

Jokerit earn first Liiga win as tempers flare in 3-0 victory

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit recorded their first Liiga victory of the season, beating Pelicans 3-0 to snap an 0-5 start. Tomi Karhunen kept a shutout with 20 saves. The match was marred by two heated incidents late in the second period: Oliver Larsen and Markus Nutivaara dropped their gloves and were both sent off after a roughly 30-second fight that began when Emil Kuusla drove into Pelicans goaltender František Poletín at 39:00. Shortly after the period ended, Max Krogdahl and Gabriel Fortier were also involved in an altercation; both received 2+2 minute penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct and violence. Larsen’s night ended just shy of two full periods.

Key Facts

  • Jokerit defeated Pelicans 3-0.
  • The victory was Jokerit’s first of the Liiga season after five straight losses.
  • Tomi Karhunen posted the shutout with 20 saves.
  • Oliver Larsen and Markus Nutivaara fought late in the second period and were both ejected.
  • The fight sequence began at 39:00 after Jokerit’s Emil Kuusla went into Pelicans goaltender František Poletín.
  • Emil Kuusla received a two-minute penalty for goalie interference.
  • Max Krogdahl and Gabriel Fortier were involved in a separate confrontation after the second period and each received 2+2 minute penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct and violence.
  • Oliver Larsen’s game lasted just under two periods.

IHM Discussion

The result gives Jokerit a necessary lift after a poor start, while Karhunen’s 20-save shutout offers a strong platform. However, the evening’s defining moments may be the physical confrontations rather than the goals. Two distinct incidents – one culminating in a fight and another after the second period – brought ejections and further penalties. Jokerit have the immediate benefit of a first win, but discipline and game management will remain an important focus.

Why It Matters

A first win changes the immediate mood for a club that had lost its first five league games. The altercations also create a secondary storyline: Jokerit must retain their competitive edge without taking penalties that disrupt their bench. The match will be remembered for Karhunen’s shutout and the heated exchanges late in the second period.

Mini Q&A

What was the score and who won?

Jokerit won 3-0 over Pelicans.

Who kept the shutout and how many saves were made?

Tomi Karhunen kept the shutout and made 20 saves.

Which players were ejected after a fight late in the second period?

Oliver Larsen and Markus Nutivaara fought and were both given game ejections.

What sparked the first altercation?

The first incident began at 39:00 when Jokerit’s Emil Kuusla went into Pelicans goaltender František Poletín; a subsequent skirmish between Larsen and Nutivaara followed.

Were there any further penalties after the second period?

Yes. Max Krogdahl and Gabriel Fortier were involved in a separate confrontation after the second period and each received 2+2 minute penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct and violence.

Coach Mark Comment

A goaltender’s shutout is the clearest form of reassurance a coach can get: it buys time to fix other issues. Still, discipline is a coaching responsibility as much as a player one. The ejections and extra penalties cost rhythm and force the bench to respond mid-game; tightening behaviour in those late-period moments is a practical and immediate coaching task.

IHM Final View

Jokerit’s 3-0 victory over Pelicans delivers a much-needed first win and a strong goaltending display. The two late-second-period incidents, which led to ejections and further penalties, ensured the match also carried a disciplinary edge. Jokerit will now look to turn that lift into steadier execution.

Heljanko shuts out Kärpät as Tappara raise banner

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Tappara celebrated last season’s championship with a banner-raising ceremony at Nokia Arena before beating Kärpät 4-0. Christian Heljanko recorded a shutout, while Aapeli Räsänen scored the opening and game-winning goal. Tappara moved into a 3-0 lead in the second period and completed a comfortable victory.

Key Facts

  • Tappara raised last season’s championship banner at Nokia Arena prior to the match.
  • Tappara defeated Kärpät 4-0 in the same game.
  • Christian Heljanko recorded a shutout and celebrated the clean sheet after the final buzzer.
  • Aapeli Räsänen scored the opening and game-winning 1-0 goal.
  • Tappara extended the lead to 3-0 in the second period.
  • Ondřej Pavel was among the Tappara goalscorers.
  • Julius Mattila and Juha Metsola brought the Kanada-malja onto the ice as part of the celebrations.
  • Tappara had several chances to add further goals during the match.
  • Niklas Rubin made saves in goal for Kärpät in an effort to keep his team in the contest.
  • Emotions rose at times in the third period as the teams finished the match.

IHM Discussion

The evening at Nokia Arena combined ceremony and competition. Tappara staged a banner-raising to mark last season’s title, then delivered a 4-0 win over Kärpät. Christian Heljanko’s shutout and Aapeli Räsänen’s game-winning opener set the tone, while Ondřej Pavel was also among the goalscorers. Kärpät turned to Niklas Rubin to make saves and keep the score down, but Tappara built a three-goal lead in the second period. Julius Mattila and Juha Metsola bringing the Kanada-malja onto the ice added to the occasion.

Why It Matters

The win gave Tappara a fitting conclusion to a night celebrating last season’s championship. Heljanko’s shutout and the second-period surge were the decisive features of a 4-0 result, while Kärpät were unable to find a way onto the scoresheet.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score?

Tappara won 4-0 against Kärpät.

Who recorded the shutout?

Christian Heljanko recorded the shutout.

Who scored the opening and game-winning goal?

Aapeli Räsänen scored the opening and game-winning 1-0 goal.

Midweek Liiga: KooKoo welcome Davidsson as defensive absences bite

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

KooKoo will have centre Marcus Davidsson back in their lineup after he missed both of last week’s Kaakon derbies, but the Kouvola club are short on the blue line as Ari Gröndahl and Aleksi Pakaslahti are absent and the team will dress just six defencemen for their home game.

Key Facts

  • Marcus Davidsson is available again for KooKoo after missing both of last week’s Kaakon derbies.
  • KooKoo will play their home game with six defencemen; Ari Gröndahl and Aleksi Pakaslahti are not in the lineup.
  • KalPa are without defencemen Joonas Lyytinen and Mitja Jokinen.
  • Rasmus Miilunpohja and Jesper Kotajärvi will play their first Liiga games of the season for KalPa; Miilunpohja is listed as the 13th forward and Kotajärvi as the seventh defenceman.
  • After a 0-4 defeat, Kärpät have altered their lineup: Niklas Rubin is replaced in goal by Visa Vedenpää.
  • Kärpät’s defensive pairings have been rearranged, with Aleksi Matinmikko joined by Arttu Paaso on the top pairing.
  • Kärpät are missing centre Tommi Tikka and defenceman Kalle Loponen from the lineup.
  • HIFK have swapped Lassi Vanhatalo and Lauri Sinivuori between the lower lines and will start Hugo Alnefelt in goal; Tim Juel is omitted and Vili Varonen is named on the bench.
  • SaiPa bring back Juuso Heikkilä after a three-game absence to play on the fourth line; defender Karri Aho is out and Gustavs Grigals will start in goal.
  • Ässät’s only change for their game with SaiPa is Eeli Äijälä being listed as the 13th forward.
  • Kiekko-Espoo‘s sole alteration from Saturday is a change of starting goalie: Petteri Rimpinen will start in Vaasa for the side from Espoo, and Sport keep the same lineup with Masi Härkönen starting in goal as in the previous match.

IHM Discussion

The midweek Liiga selection bulletin reads like a snapshot of small but consequential availability swings. KooKoo’s restoration of Marcus Davidsson bolsters their centre depth and has prompted a tweak to the lower forward units, yet the simultaneous absences of Ari Gröndahl and Aleksi Pakaslahti reduce their defensive resources to six – a situation that increases the workload on the available blueliners and limits matchup flexibility. KalPa’s absences on defence mean Rasmus Miilunpohja and Jesper Kotajärvi are set for their first Liiga appearances of the season, underlining the need to adapt their lineup.

Why It Matters

Availability shifts of this kind directly affect ice-time allocation and in-game management. A team dressing six defencemen must manage its blue-line workload carefully, particularly in special-teams and late-game situations. For KalPa and Kärpät, players making their first league appearances of the season give coaches fresh variables to monitor, including composure, decision-making and how quickly they settle into the team structure. The goaltending changes at Kärpät and HIFK will also be closely watched.

Mini Q&A

Who returns to KooKoo’s lineup?

Marcus Davidsson returns to KooKoo after missing both of last week’s Kaakon derbies.

Which KooKoo defencemen are absent?

Ari Gröndahl and Aleksi Pakaslahti are absent, leaving KooKoo to play with six defencemen.

Which KalPa players are missing and who comes in?

Joonas Lyytinen and Mitja Jokinen are absent; Rasmus Miilunpohja and Jesper Kotajärvi will play their first Liiga games of the season, listed as the 13th forward and seventh defenceman respectively.

What changes did Kärpät make after their 0-4 defeat?

Kärpät replaced Niklas Rubin with Visa Vedenpää in goal, named Tuukka Tieksola and Veeti Ruotsalainen for their first Liiga games of the season, omitted Tommi Tikka and Kalle Loponen, and reshuffled defensive pairings with Aleksi Matinmikko teamed with Arttu Paaso.

Which teams made small goalkeeper or bench changes?

Kärpät will start Visa Vedenpää; HIFK will start Hugo Alnefelt with Vili Varonen on the bench; SaiPa will start Gustavs Grigals; Kiekko-Espoo will start Petteri Rimpinen; Sport keep Masi Härkönen in goal.

Coach Mark Comment

A six-defenceman lineup demands disciplined shift management and simple decisions with the puck. For players making their first league appearances of the season, defined responsibilities and reliable support from teammates can help them settle quickly into the game.

What Comes Next

Several items named in the selection notes remain immediate checkpoints: KooKoo will play their home game with six defencemen; KalPa will field Rasmus Miilunpohja and Jesper Kotajärvi in their first Liiga games of the season (Miilunpohja as 13th forward, Kotajärvi as seventh defenceman); Kärpät will start Visa Vedenpää in goal, and Tuukka Tieksola and Veeti Ruotsalainen will appear in their first league games of the season; HIFK will start Hugo Alnefelt in goal with Vili Varonen on the bench.

IHM Final View

KooKoo’s forward recovery is welcome, but their defensive shortfall will be a defining factor in the home game. Elsewhere, KalPa and Kärpät have adjusted their selections, and the players making their first Liiga appearances of the season will be worth watching as the round unfolds.

Kärpät’s puck control shows clear progress under Karjalainen

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Petri Karjalainen, in his second year as Kärpät head coach, has reorganised the team’s opening play so the side keeps the puck and constructs attacks. That structural improvement was visible even in a 4-0 defeat at Tappara: Kärpät produced quality possession sequences early, defenders led by Kasper Soini were willing to play the puck, and a defender – defender – centre passing pattern created chances. Tappara finished emphatically and won 4-0. After five Liiga games, Kärpät have seven points, and Karjalainen’s work has put the club back on the path to being a realistic playoff team.

Key Facts

  • Petri Karjalainen is in his second season as Kärpät head coach.
  • Karjalainen previously coached KalPa to a championship before taking the Kärpät job for 2025-2026.
  • Kärpät finished the 2025-2026 regular season third from bottom.
  • Karjalainen has prioritised improving Kärpät’s opening play (avauspelaaminen).
  • Against Tappara, Kärpät played seven delayed exits in the first period and recycled the puck deeper in their own end when routes were blocked.
  • Defencemen, led by Kasper Soini, showed willingness to play with the puck.
  • A defender – defender – centre passing pattern produced both direct attacks and scoring chances for Kärpät.
  • Tappara defeated Kärpät 4-0; Tappara’s third goal shifted the game and Kärpät could not mount a comeback in the third period.
  • Tappara had three breakaways in the final period.
  • After five league games Kärpät have seven points.

IHM Discussion

Karjalainen’s immediate priority has been the kind of detail that determines possession quality: how the team exits its own zone and how defenders engage with the puck. The evidence from the Tappara game shows a coherent plan. Early on, Kärpät attempted multiple controlled exit sequences and, crucially, recycled the puck when lanes were congested rather than forcing risky plays. That discipline produced coordinated five-man attacks in which players stayed close enough to support each other, helping to generate scoring chances.

The result – a 4-0 loss – is stark, but it does not erase the underlying progress. Tappara’s finishing and third goal left Kärpät unable to mount a comeback in the final period, while defensive lapses also created problems. Still, the structural work on opening play has given Kärpät a clearer basis for building attacks patiently through possession.

Why It Matters

Liiga teams are judged as much by their systems as by isolated results. Fixing opening play is a high-leverage improvement: it raises the baseline quality of all offensive possessions, reduces turnovers in dangerous areas and gives a coach tactical options for transitions. For Kärpät, regaining control over exits and early-phase structure is the fastest route back to consistent results. If Karjalainen sustains this approach, Kärpät can convert stronger possession into the points they lacked last season.

Fan Pulse

Fans will see reasons for cautious optimism. The scoreline was disappointing, but supporters can take encouragement from the clearer structure and the willingness of defenders such as Kasper Soini to play the puck. Improved possession and patient build-up offer recognisable signs of progress after a difficult 2025-2026 campaign.

Mini Q&A

Who is coaching Kärpät and how long has he been in the job?

Petri Karjalainen is Kärpät’s head coach and he is in his second season with the club.

What was the result of Kärpät’s recent match against Tappara?

Tappara beat Kärpät 4-0.

What tactical area has Karjalainen improved at Kärpät?

Karjalainen has focused on improving the team’s opening play (avauspelaaminen), emphasising controlled exits and puck retention.

Which Kärpät player was highlighted for his puck play in defence?

Defenceman Kasper Soini was singled out for leading the defence’s willingness to play with the puck.

How many points do Kärpät have after five Liiga games?

After five league games Kärpät have seven points.

Coach Mark Comment

Improving opening play is a foundational coaching task. You want simple decision trees for the puck-carrier: clear options when pressured, consistent support angles from teammates and a rehearsed response when a direct exit isn’t available (for example, returning the puck safely and resetting). Those behaviours reduce chaotic turnovers and allow a team to control pace. For Kärpät, the next step is to train transition defence so that any mistake in the exit phase does not immediately become a high-danger chance; that pairing of reliable exits and tightened transition coverage turns controlled possession into sustained results.

IHM Final View

Petri Karjalainen’s work on possession and opening play gives Kärpät a believable foundation for recovery. The 4-0 defeat to Tappara underlines that execution and defensive consistency still need sharpening, but the tactical reset on exits and puck control is the concrete progress the club required. If those structural gains are maintained, Kärpät can be discussed again as a legitimate playoff prospect rather than a side defined by last season’s struggles.

Veteran centre Jori Lehterä retires mid-season

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HIFK announced on Saturday that 38-year-old centre Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey. Lehterä had played four games for HIFK this season and had just reached the 400-game mark in Liiga. Head coach Olli Jokinen said the decision came as a surprise to the club.

Key Facts

  • HIFK announced that 38-year-old Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey.
  • Lehterä played four games for HIFK in the current season before announcing his decision.
  • He had just reached 400 Liiga games played.
  • Lehterä spent the last four seasons with HIFK.
  • Earlier in his Liiga career he played for Jokerit and Tappara.
  • Lehterä is a Finnish champion from spring 2023.
  • He has played internationally in the NHL and the KHL.
  • With the Finnish national team (Leijonat) Lehterä won World Championship silver and Olympic bronze.
  • HIFK head coach Olli Jokinen said the decision was a surprise to the club: ” Nothing has happened. That came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.”

IHM Discussion

Jori Lehterä’s decision to end his career mid-season is notable both for its timing and for the experience it removes from HIFK’s roster. Lehterä is a veteran centre with a long professional career across Liiga, the NHL and the KHL, and he recently cleared the 400-game threshold in Finland’s top league. Having spent the last four seasons in Helsinki and won a Finnish title in 2023, his departure is an unexpected change for HIFK.

The reaction from head coach Olli Jokinen underlines how sudden the announcement was for the organisation. Jokinen said the decision “came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.” HIFK will now need to adjust following the loss of an experienced centre, while the club has provided no further detail on Lehterä’s decision.

Why It Matters

Lehterä’s retirement matters because it removes an experienced centre from HIFK during the season. His 400 Liiga games, international experience and four seasons with HIFK give the decision added significance. For Liiga, the departure of a player with NHL, KHL and national-team experience marks the end of a substantial career. Jokinen’s surprise also indicates that the decision was not expected by the club.

Mini Q&A

Has Jori Lehterä retired mid-season?

Yes. HIFK announced that 38-year-old Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey.

How many games did Lehterä play for HIFK this season before retiring?

Lehterä played four games for HIFK in the current season before his retirement announcement.

What are Lehterä’s notable career achievements mentioned?

He had just reached 400 Liiga games, is a Finnish champion from spring 2023, has played in the NHL and KHL, and won World Championship silver and Olympic bronze with Finland.

What did HIFK head coach Olli Jokinen say about the decision?

Jokinen said the decision was a surprise to the club: ” Nothing has happened. That came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.”