Helsingin IFK (HIFK) is set to compete in the first round of the playoffs, with the initial matches scheduled for the weekend of March 20 and 21. However, the team will not have the opportunity to host these games at their home venue, Nordiks, since the venue has been allocated for an Immun Fight Club event organized by Mika "Immu" Ilmén. The situation is creating uncertainty regarding the location of the playoff matches for HIFK.

According to Tommi Hintikka, HIFK's sales and marketing director, the playoff schedule is unlikely to be shifted, although the locations may be altered. He indicated that HIFK will probably play two away games and two home games; these arrangements are expected to be confirmed on Tuesday evening. This stands in contrast to the franchise's usual home advantage, further complicated by the reserving of their primary venue for an external event.

In the first round of the playoffs, which employs a best-of-five format, HIFK will face one of several prospective opponents including Ilves, Lukko, KalPa, JYP, or Ässät. The pairings for the playoffs will be solidified on Tuesday night when the final round of the SM-liiga regular season concludes, with HIFK scheduled to face the Pelicans in this final match. This unexpected change in venue highlights the complexities faced by sports teams regarding venue availability, especially during crucial playoff moments.