Helsingin IFK finished the regular season strongly, clinching a 4-0 victory against Lahden Pelicans, which marked their sixth consecutive win. This success allowed HIFK to secure the tenth spot in the standings, accumulating 88 points over 60 games. Even though the team made it to the playoffs, head coach Olli Jokinen reflected on the season, stating that it had been difficult and below the expectations of a major club.

Jokinen conveyed a sense of urgency regarding the team's performance, as they matched their lowest regular season position since 2002. He mentioned the team fell short of their points goals by 20, which he categorized as unacceptable for an organization of HIFK's stature. The improvement seen in the last 35 games was crucial for the team, saving them from a likely absence from the playoffs, which seemed inevitable earlier in the season.

With the playoffs now ahead, Jokinen considers this a fresh start for the team, emphasizing the need to focus on new goals and strategies. He acknowledged the external disturbances that affected the team's performance and highlighted the importance of adapting to the challenges moving forward. The playoffs present a new opportunity for HIFK to demonstrate their potential and ambition in the league despite their rocky regular-season journey.