Iltalehti's article highlights the significance of the second round in the Hockey Manager game, where all teams played two matches resulting in a large number of points on offer. As the next round approaches, some teams have qualified directly for the quarterfinals in Milan and will not play, creating a need for adjustments among many managers. Players who have been saving their free substitutions now have the opportunity to utilize them effectively.

The article emphasizes the strategic decisions managers must make regarding player selection, especially for Tuesday’s matches, as those chosen must also be considered for the Wednesday quarterfinal round. If players selected for Tuesday do not participate on Wednesday, managers could face a significant need for substitutions that morning, complicating their strategy further. With two free player changes allowed per round, managers are encouraged to think ahead about their team’s formation and player availability.

Additionally, while more substitutions can be made, they come at a penalty of losing points per swap, which adds to the complexity of the managers' decision-making processes. The need for keen strategic insight and timing is emphasized, making this a critical moment in the ongoing competition.