The head coach of the Nashville Predators, a Finnish team in the NHL, Andrew Brunette, shared some excellent news on Thursday evening.

Brunette revealed to the media that Joakim Kemell, 21, will be joining the active roster as the team opens its regular season with a home game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday night, Finnish time.

Kemell is the Predators’ 1st round, 17th overall pick from 2022. Known for his powerful shot, the winger has played two NHL games so far, which he logged during the previous season.

The Jyväskylä native, a product of JYP, played 65 regular season games in the AHL last season (19+21=40) and 10 playoff games (3+5=8).

This season, the Finnish players representing the Predators also include goaltenders Juuse Saros and Justus Annunen, as well as center Erik Haula.

Brooks Bratten

@brooksbratten
#Preds Head Coach Andrew Brunette says Joakim Kemell will play tonight in Nashville's opener. Ozzy Wiesblatt is a game-time decision. Brady Martin will make his NHL debut.

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