Karri Kivi on MTV:llä: Here is the biggest surprise of the Lions – “Exceeded expectations”
The Finnish men’s national ice hockey team has impressed in the group stage of the World Championships with its strong defensive play. Only five goals in four matches indicate a tight and disciplined team defense.
MTV Sports expert Karri Kivi highlights particularly one player who has taken on a bigger role than expected in the tournament. The Boston Bruins defenseman Henri Jokiharju was not among the biggest stars before the tournament, but has played impressive and balanced hockey in both directions.
– Henri Jokiharju has certainly exceeded expectations. In the last game, he had some great stats, but overall his basic play has been at an excellent level. A positive surprise, Kivi says.
Also, DailyFaceoff hockey reporter Steven Ellis praised Jokiharju’s performance in the Latvia game.
– This was probably Jokiharju’s best senior national team game so far. He scored a goal and had an assist in the first period, after which Finland took the lead and never looked back. The 26-year-old mobile defenseman is skilled with the puck, but he hasn’t been able to make it work in the NHL in a significant way. At this level, where he is more of a leader, it feels like Jokiharju is playing in his comfort zone again, Ellis raved.
Another key player in defense has been Mikko Lehtonen, whose experience and leadership have been invaluable to the team.
– Mr. Stylish, Mikko Lehtonen, year after year just has those concrete feet. Results come, and his body language also shows other players that we are winners, we have a chance to win, Kivi states.
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