Tappara has recently slipped into a crisis within the SM League, suffering a three-match losing streak. This is particularly notable given the team's past dominance and reputation as a powerhouse in Finnish hockey. The losses came against mid-tier and lower-tier teams, which is unusual for a club that has been widely praised and considered a favorite to win the championship. As a result, the competitive landscape of the league has shifted, with Tappara's vulnerability now raising questions about their ability to maintain their top position.

The impact of these surprising losses is compounded by the context of the Olympic Games, which could be affecting team dynamics and performances across the league. With their lead over the second-place team, Lukko, shrinking from ten points to just four, the urgency for Tappara to bounce back is critical. The team has shown signs of complacency, potentially due to their previously comfortable standing, which could have diminished their competitive edge during key games.

In addition to performance issues, injuries have played a role in the recent challenges faced by Tappara. The injury to Aapeli Räsänen has been significant, disrupting the team's lineup and cohesion around the New Year. This situation emphasizes the pressures that teams face not only from opponents but also from the demands of the season. Moving forward, Tappara needs to address these weaknesses promptly to regain their status as a top contender in the league.