Perspective: Leo Komarov's league transfer was a mistake

Kiekko-Espoo announced on Monday that they have signed a contract for the remainder of the season with Leo Komarov, 38. In the club’s statement, sports director Kim Hirschovits commented on the acquisition of Komarov in remarkable terms.

– The team’s situation has been monitored all the time, and at the same time, we have considered, within the possibilities, how to strengthen our group towards the spring. We have been in contact with “Leksan” since the summer, and both parties have been aware of each other’s situations, Hirschovits says.

– We have had many absences, and the team has been under pressure for a long time. However, it has been great to see our young players take on responsibility and fulfill their roles well.

– Now things have come together with Leksan at a good time. He brings us experience and special expertise, especially in winning games and playing the last minutes of periods and matches. Leksan’s personality also brings us positive energy that strengthens our everyday activities.

According to the statement, Komarov will thus bring that famous winning experience and good team player qualities to Kiekko-Espoo’s lineup. It remains to be seen what their impact will be on the ice.

Seriously, Komarov’s contribution is of course greater. He brings Kiekko-Espoo fighting power, checking strength, and toughness. But is there a need for any of this? Kiekko-Espoo was already one of the best teams in the league in terms of battle wins.

More than anything, Kiekko-Espoo would have needed a skilled forward. In both created scoring chances and finished goals, the Espoo team has been among the weakest in the league this season.

There would also have been a need for a strong defensive defender who can initiate attacks but also, when necessary, throw the puck harshly through the glass to the neutral zone. Despite having good goaltending, Kiekko-Espoo has allowed the sixth most goals this season.

Komarov is not the answer to either need.