Marko Leppänen’s latest Liiga column shares a series of stories from around the league. Jokerit forward Teemu Turunen, who injured his foot in training in September, is progressing towards a return after an estimated six-to-eight-week absence. He had played three games before the injury and recently watched a local derby against HIFK on crutches.
A school-day game between Jukurit and Ässät drew 4,200 spectators, with Ässät goalkeeper Roope Taponen praising the event. KalPa goalkeeper Rasmus Korhonen explained that his skate blades are sharpened with a four-millimetre inside edge, rather than the usual three, and are sharper than those of most goalkeepers. Former Jukurit forward Jesper Piitulainen also joked that referees have not given him a penalty this season.
Elsewhere, Kärpät goalkeeper Niklas Rubin described growing up on a farm, while Ilves forward Luke Henman discussed his careful approach to food. Henman, who plays with Lukas Jasek and Jens Lööke, has risen to the top of Liiga’s scoring chart. The column also recounts anecdotes involving SaiPa coach Raimo Helminen and other league figures.