The excitement surrounding the NHL event in Milan has intensified as a fleet of five charter planes transported stars across the Atlantic for the first time in twelve years. Alongside the players, many spouses and family members have also arrived, highlighting the familial aspect of the tournament. Henna Malmberg, the communications director of the Finnish national ice hockey teams, noted that the NHL Players' Association has organized a designated hotel for the families, ensuring their comfort amidst the bustling atmosphere of the competitions.

The influx of family members into Milan comes with significant implications for the city's accommodation landscape. During this championship period, hotel capacities and prices are under strain, but the dedicated arrangements for the NHL players' families alleviate concerns for them. Malmberg emphasized that the arrangements are managed entirely by the NHL, meaning local organizers, including the Finnish association, lack precise information on who will be attending from the players' families. This not only showcases the NHL's commitment to its players but also reveals the logistical challenges faced by cities hosting significant events.

As the NHL players and their families settled into Milan, excitement filled the air at Malpensa Airport where they landed at around noon. Among them was Erik Haula, a father of two, symbolizing the personal connections that extend beyond the sport itself. This presence of families enhances the overall experience of the event, blending the professional and personal lives of the players, and may contribute positively to their performance on the ice during the championship.