The most important player in Finland has a huge responsibility: "I'm used to it"

MILANO.

The Lions’ team in the Olympics is largely the same as in the 4 Nations a year ago.

One major change in the team has occurred: Miro Heiskanen was sidelined a year ago due to injury, but now he is back in action.

The defensive material is not Finland’s strength. Heiskanen is definitely the team’s best puck-moving defenseman. This makes Heiskanen the most important individual player for the Lions. He is likely to have as much responsibility as the Dallas Stars player can handle.

– Of course, it’s great to be here, especially since the [4 Nations] was missed. It’s wonderful to be involved. The responsibility is perhaps because I’m used to it in Dallas, having played a lot. I will probably get that here too. I’m so used to it that I like to play a lot and enjoy being in a big role, Heiskanen said after Tuesday’s practice.

Heiskanen does not shy away from responsibility but is aware of his position.

– Yes. I try to bring that here, the puck-moving game, the breakout game, and join the attacks. I am aware that there is a big responsibility.

Fundamentally, Heiskanen will play with the top defense pair and on the first power play unit. The offensive defenseman will often be on the ice at the same time as Mikael Granlund, Mikko Rantanen, and Roope Hintz – on the power play, Sebastian Aho will also join as reinforcement.

Heiskanen admitted that his own play is easier when there are players on the ice who are skilled both mentally and physically.

– Of course, it makes it easier. Also, being able to read those guys pretty well helps. I can make plays and good decisions even from tight spaces.

The 4 Nations served as a pre-tournament for the Olympics. It was the first time in a long while that the best teams at the national level faced each other. Heiskanen indeed had to watch the tournament from his couch at home, but nonetheless, the level of play was impressive.

– I don’t remember, at least not for a while [that there has been such high-level hockey]. When I watched the games, the level was good. It will probably be somewhat similar here too, Heiskanen said.

– It’s been quite a while since NHL players have been involved. The Olympics is a big deal; I’ve watched them since I was little. It’s a wonderful thing to be part of and to play here.

Jaakko Perttilä
X: @JaakkoPerttila