Malmö Redhawks’ Finnish forward Janne Kuokkanen gave a strong response to his early-season critics on Tuesday. Kuokkanen racked up five assists as Malmö crushed Linköping 8–2 in the SHL.

Kuokkanen’s start to the season had not gone entirely as expected. The Finnish center had accumulated 11 points in his first 11 games with a score of 1+7=8, and his performances had drawn criticism even among Malmö fans.

However, on Tuesday, Kuokkanen showed what a professional who has played 119 games in the NHL can do at his best. The Golden Lion assisted on his team’s first five goals and increased his season point total to 1+12=13.

The Swedish media Skånesport naturally named Kuokkanen the standout performer of the match. According to the site, the Finn showcased his exceptional game vision and passing skills, especially on the power play.

Oliwer Kaski also shone in Malmö’s dominant victory. The Finnish defenseman scored two goals and provided one assist. Lauri Pajuniemi supported the duo with a score of 1+1.

The Finnish trio from Malmö combined for a total of ten points in the match.

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