In a unique situation at the Olympic hockey practice in Milan, Finnish defenceman Mikko Lehtonen was the only player to show up, taking advantage of the open ice before the arrival of his NHL teammates. While the rest of the Finnish squad, consisting of 24 NHL players, were still en route to Italy, Lehtonen, who plays professionally in Switzerland, decided to make the most of the available practice time. This marked an unusual moment, as Lehtonen is not only the lone participant but also a defending Olympic champion from 2026, underscoring his individual commitment to preparation.

Lehtonen, who had experience with NHL teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets, embraced the solo skate, finding humor in the situation. During his one-man practice session at the Santagiulia rink, he mentioned enjoying the opportunity for extra repetitions, highlighting that he is prepared to represent Finland fiercely at the upcoming games. His participation by himself brings attention to the challenges athletes face when coordination among numerous players is needed, especially with many playing in the NHL.

As the Finnish national team gears up for the Olympics, Lehtonen's dedication serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and commitments that professional athletes make. The absence of his teammates reflects the logistical aspects of international sports, where players are often separated by clubs and leagues. This light-hearted yet poignant event encapsulates the broader experience of preparing for high-stakes international competition while navigating the complexities of professional sports commitments.