Helsingin IFK (HIFK) extended its losing streak to four games as they faced a disappointing defeat against Kiekko-Espoo, which ended in a 4-0 shutout. The game started poorly for HIFK, with Kristian Näkyvä scoring just a minute into the match. Aarne Talvitie, returning from injury, was the standout player, netting two goals and showcasing his impact on the game after a prolonged absence. Kiekko-Espoo's goalie, Petteri Rimpinen, achieved a shutout by making 26 saves, including a remarkable stop that denied HIFK any chance of scoring.

With this loss, HIFK remains in 12th place, the last position that still qualifies for playoff contention in the spring, just one point ahead of TPS, who are currently suffering a loss against JYP. The other matches on Saturday are still in progress, and the competition is heating up as teams jockey for playoff positioning. Notably, Alexander True, who has returned from the Olympics to the league, made a significant impact for TPS, scoring during the first period, while Valtteri Ojantakanen has managed to score twice against JYP. The evening culminates in a key matchup between SaiPa and KooKoo, where playoff implications are on the line.