Viljami Jokirinne’s career took a decisive turn after a pre-season game between his Mestis side Forssan Palloseura and HPK. The defenceman, who had played a leading role in Ilves’ junior teams, had moved to Forssa to gain experience in senior hockey. His performance caught HPK’s attention, and the teams began discussions. He has since established himself as one of Liiga’s most interesting attacking defencemen.
Jokirinne began his junior career as a centre and switched to defence in Ilves’ U20 team at coach Tomi Pettinen’s suggestion. Pettinen says the team needed a puck-moving defenceman and praises Jokirinne’s work defending on the front foot and making breakouts under pressure. Jokirinne’s creative, puck-carrying style has remained central to his game.
After initially working his way into HPK’s lineup as the seventh defenceman, Jokirinne gradually earned a larger role. He has now partnered Miska Kukkonen for a second season. Jokirinne averages 21 minutes and 46 seconds of ice time, fourth among Liiga defencemen, and has a contract with HPK through spring 2028.