Jokerit: superstar out of the first line

The Jokers face Ässät in the Liiga round on Friday. The Helsinki club has made significant changes to its forward lines.

The biggest change is seen in the first line, where Patrick Curry has been moved to the center of the third line. Taking Curry’s previous position on the wing of the first line is Antti Kalapudas, who now plays alongside Henri Nikkanen and Maxime Fortier. This trio represented SaiPa last season.

Eetu Tuulola‘s role has also changed. The forward, who played in the second line just a week ago, has been moved to the fourth line alongside Bruno Kallio and Aleksi Mustonen.

Taking Tuulola’s place in the second line is Kristo Pitkänen, who plays with Markus Hännikäinen and Patrik Virta.

In the third line, Emil Kuusla and Alexander Forslund will play alongside Curry.

There have also been minor changes in defense. Riku Tuomola returns to the lineup and plays in the first defensive pair alongside Max Krogdahl. He makes room for Miks Tumanovs.

The goaltending duo remains unchanged. Tomi Karhunen will guard the Jokers’ goal and Olle Eriksson Ek is the backup.