JYP, a team competing for a top-four position in the SM-liiga regular season, faces a significant setback as star forward Santeri Huovila will be absent for their home game against Kiekko-Espoo. Huovila's name is missing from the game day lineup, and Aaro Vidgren will take his place on the first line. This news comes at a critical juncture as the team aims to secure a strong position for the playoffs.

Huovila has been a standout player in the league this season, accumulating 29 points in 20 games before suffering a serious upper-body injury that required surgery in November. He missed nearly three months due to the injury but returned to the ice recently, amassing six assists in his last six games. However, the latest injury setback will be a blow to JYP's chances of winning as they strive for playoff contention.

Additionally, JYP will be without another key player, Pekka Jormakka, for the upcoming match, further complicating their lineup. The team faces the added pressure of competing against Rauman Lukko, who have been performing strongly in the league. As JYP navigates this challenging situation, the upcoming match will be vital for their playoff aspirations, with the absence of Huovila significantly impacting their offensive strategy.