The league's fastest skater changes scenery
Joonas Oden, known as the fastest skater in the league, is set to join HPK next season after a solid run with KooKoo.
Joonas Oden, the fastest skater in Finland's Liiga, is reportedly transferring to HPK for the next season. He has played for KooKoo for the past two seasons, where he demonstrated impressive scoring abilities, achieving 29 points across 51 regular-season games last year and currently on track for around 30 points this season. His contract with KooKoo is concluding this spring, marking a significant transition in his career.
Oden, who stands at 183 cm, made his Liiga debut with KooKoo during the 2018-2019 season. His speed is noteworthy; last season, he recorded a top skating speed of 38.41 km/h, making him a crucial asset in the league. In addition to his success in domestic play, he has also participated in international competitions such as the under-20 World Championships, where he managed 6 points.
With dual citizenship in Finland and the United States, Oden brings a wealth of experience from various teams, including Ilves, SaiPa, Ketterรค, and even a stint in Austria. His ongoing performance this season, with 25 points from 47 games and three matches left before the playoffs, signals his potential for success at HPK as he prepares for a new chapter in his professional hockey career.