Kristian Tanus, a 25-year-old star forward and product of Tappara's youth system, has made the decision to leave the club after an outstanding season in the SM-liiga, where he has amassed significant personal success. According to reports, he will join HC Ajoie in the Swiss league next season. Tanus has been instrumental in Tappara's success, contributing to three Finnish championships during his time with the team, and has showcased incredible performance this season, accumulating 45 points in just 43 games with a remarkable scoring streak since the beginning of 2026.

This transition not only marks a significant moment for Tanus, who has spent his entire professional career in Finland, but it also represents a shift in the competitive landscape of Finnish hockey as talented players seek opportunities abroad. Several teams from Sweden's SHL were reportedly interested in Tanus's services, highlighting the player's rising star status and potential impact elsewhere. The move to the Swiss league can be seen as a necessary step for player development, especially for someone like Tanus, who is currently at the pinnacle of his career.

Tanus's farewell from Tappara signifies both a personal and professional shift, encapsulating the growing trend of Finnish players exploring international leagues as they aim for broader exposure and career opportunities. His significant contributions to Tappara will be missed, and fans are left wondering how the team will adjust to this loss. Meanwhile, HC Ajoie is likely to benefit greatly from Tanus’s exceptional skills as they prepare for the upcoming season, making his transfer one of the notable changes in European hockey this year.