Lahden Pelicans, a Finnish league hockey team, experienced a remarkable victory this Friday, defeating JYP with a staggering score of 9-2. This game showcased the Pelicans' offensive strength, clearly indicating their competitive spirit as they head toward the playoffs. However, the excitement was short-lived as the team quickly shifted focus to internal matters following the match.

Immediately after their dominant win, Pelicans announced the release of American forward A.J. Vanderbeck, who had spent just 22 games with the team, recording 11 points. This move came as a surprise to fans who were still celebrating the victory. Vanderbeck's departure is not an isolated incident; just the week before, the team mutually agreed to part ways with Finnish forward Elias Vilén, raising questions about the stability of the roster as the playoffs approach.

The Pelicans have been grappling with financial challenges for the past couple of years, which have become public knowledge. Despite this, the team's current standing at 11th place in the league and efforts to maintain competitiveness demonstrate a complex situation where performance on the ice contrasts sharply with the turmoil off it. As the spring playoffs draw near, it will be interesting to see how these issues impact the team's future and performance.