Perspective: The biggest weaknesses of the Jokers were evident right from the opening game

Jokerit played their first Liiga game in years on Tuesday. The result was a shootout loss to Vaasan Sport with a score of 4-5.

Jokerit got a dream start in the first period. Eetu Tuulola put the Jokers ahead 1-0 just three minutes and 35 seconds into the game.

The first two periods saw the same game pattern. Jokerit slightly dominated the game, but individual defensive mistakes and uncertain goaltending allowed Sport to stay in the game.

In the third period, Sport completely took control. The Vaasa team outshot Jokerit 11-4. Jokerit was timid and in defensive mode during the decisive period. Eventually, Viljami Nieminen equalized for Vaasa with a sharp shot that goaltender Veini Vehviläinen should have saved.

Jokerit’s best line was undoubtedly the third line, featuring Emil Kuusla, Kristo Pitkänen, and Eetu Tuulola. This trio was the only one that managed to push the play into the offensive zone and create scoring opportunities in the third period.

Before the season started, many experts highlighted Jokerit’s weak defense and goaltending. The first game showed that the concerns about Jokerit’s lineup were justified. The defensive material looked very error-prone, but it must be remembered that top defenseman Matt Caito was absent. Goaltender Veini Vehviläinen, on the other hand, did not appear to be a winning goalie.

Jokerit’s weaknesses were also visible in their gameplay. When the team had to play for an extended period in their own zone, the unit fell apart badly. Sport was not yet able to capitalize on these situations effectively, but when Jokerit faces Ilves or Lukko in the future, it could be a rough ride.