New Oilers defenceman turns heads vs Team Canada at IIHF Tournament
Photo credit: Oilersnation
New Oilers defenceman Atro Leppanen is turning heads with his play on Team Finland at the IIHF World Championship, including a huge upset win vs Team Canada.
The Oilers signed Leppanen as a free agent out of Finland late in the regular season, hoping that he will be able to make the NHL as soon as next season.
Oilers defenceman Atro Leppanen turning heads at World Championship
Through 7 games of the tournament so far, Leppanen has produced some elite defensive results with Finland never allowing a goal with him on the ice - even against Team Canada.
Leppanen hasn't been playing top minutes for Finland, but has still found ways to produce offence too. He's shown quality puck moving skills to register 2 assists, but most importantly kept up his play in the defensive zone.
The newest Oilers defenceman is a very interesting case as a pro hockey player in general.
He only broke into LIIGA two seasons ago, and last year had his big breakout year with 63 points in 60 games. Now 26 years old, he's projected to make a quick jump to the NHL mostly based off his offensive talent.
It's a promising sign to see Leppanen succeeding against top talent, and definitely bodes well for his transition to North America.
Multiple European and college free agents will add to Oilers depth next year
The Oilers have added plenty more free agents this season other than Leppanen. Also on team Finland, Joshua Samanski has been signed by the Oilers and is expected to debut in the AHL.
These European free agent signings always turn out to be a lottery for the team. Hopefully, the Oilers find one under the radar player to become an impactful player.
| POLL | ||
MAI 20 | 376 ANSWERS New Oilers defenceman turns heads vs Team Canada at IIHF Tournament Do you think the Oilers will have Leppanen in the NHL next year? | ||
| Yes | 257 | 68.4 % |
| No | 119 | 31.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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