Next season, the SM-liiga will face profound changes, notably with the implementation of a strict relegation system based on regular-season outcomes without qualification matches. This year is particularly pivotal as the league will host an unusually long regular season, which may lead to a more compressed playoff format. The league's governing body is currently finalizing the details of the new playing schedule.

Historically, the SM-liiga has not had relegation due to the absence of direct dropouts for as long as anyone can remember. This is set to change as the league gears up for a so-called 'super season' before the large-scale restructuring into a 14-team top league and a 10-team second division. The league will at least have 17 teams, including the Jokerit, who are moving up from the Mestiksen league, with a possibility of adding another team from Mestiksen, potentially bringing the total to 18 teams in the league.

MTV reported that the league board is close to completing the regular season format, signifying an important transition period as the SM-liiga adapts not only in terms of the number of teams but in its competitive structure as well. These changes will heavily impact how teams prepare for the upcoming seasons and the overall competitive balance in Finnish ice hockey going forward.