JYP is entering the playoffs with a considerable disadvantage in their lineup as they prepare to face Pelicans in the quarterfinals. The most significant absence for JYP is their key defender Sami Vatanen, who was the second-highest scoring defender in the league during the regular season. His presence was pivotal for JYP, especially in power plays, and his absence is expected to impact the team's performance significantly.

In addition to Vatanen, JYP’s lineup is further weakened by the absence of another defender, Teemu Eronen, and top scorer Leevi Tukiainen from the forward position. Despite Eetu Peltola returning to the squad, the missing players create a challenging environment for JYP, which will have to rely heavily on their remaining players. The starting goalie for today's match will be Oskari Salminen, who has had a challenging season so far.

On the other side, Pelicans are also facing their own lineup issues, with key forwards Joona Kumpula, Lukas Zetterberg, and Patrik Carlsson missing, along with defender Daniel Nieminen. Pelicans will need to rely on less experienced players Eerik Kolehmainen and Aatu Pohjalainen to fill the gaps left by their sidelined teammates. The playoff match is set to be more intense due to these personnel challenges, as both teams strive to gain an advantage despite their respective player shortages.