Juho Lammikko, a Finnish ice hockey player, has made a swift return to the ZSC Lions after being released by the New Jersey Devils in the NHL. Lammikko's time with the Devils was short-lived, as the team terminated his contract, leading him back to Switzerland. Previously, he played for the Lions from 2022 to 2025 and had been hoping to make a successful return to the NHL this summer, although it did not pan out as he had wished.

In the wake of his departure from the Devils, the ZSC Lions announced Lammikko's signing, highlighting his importance to the team. According to the Lions' sports director, Sven Leuenberger, Lammikko is expected to bring valuable skills and energy to the team, particularly as a two-way center. His return is seen as a reinforcement for the squad, which has now regained its full center lineup from the previous season, positioning the team for a competitive return to form in the Swiss league.

Lammikko's journey underscores the challenges faced by players navigating the professional hockey landscape, especially between leagues like the NHL and European leagues. Despite his aspirations in the NHL, returning to a familiar environment may provide him with the stability and opportunity to showcase his talents once again, making a significant impact in the Swiss league and potentially rekindling his career at a higher level in the future.