IS: A blow felt by the Jokers before the league opener – big name sidelined
The Jokerit will start their Liiga season on Tuesday in Vaasa against Sport without one of their most notable defenders. Matt Caito is not fit to play in the season opener.
The 33-year-old American told Ilta-Sanomat on Monday that he is suffering from a lower body injury. However, Caito was on the ice at the Veikkaus Arena training facility.
– The injury occurred during the preseason. It is being evaluated day by day. I hope to practice fully with the team soon, the 33-year-old American said.
Caito will not travel with the Jokerit to Vaasa. A specific return date has not yet been determined.
– The [injury] is gradually improving. It feels better day by day.
A lot is expected from the Jokerit’s top defender. Caito was named the best defender in the Liiga for the 2019–2020 season when he represented KooKoo. During his time at the Kouvola club, Caito played 59 games and scored 43 points (8+35).
After the KooKoo season, his career continued in Sweden. Caito spent six seasons in the SHL with Leksand before moving to Jokerit.
The Jokerit’s return to the SM-liiga has also sparked interest within the team. Caito would have liked to be part of the very first league game.
– I was looking forward to playing in the opener. This is a bit frustrating, but the season is long. It’s better to be sidelined now than in the middle of the season, Caito said.
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