Helsinki Jokerit sign defenseman Olli Juolevi from Tappara

Helsinki Jokerit announced on Tuesday the signing of defenseman Olli Juolevi to a one-year contract for the upcoming season. Juolevi, 28, returns to his hometown club, having previously played for Jokerit in his junior years.

He joins Jokerit from Tappara, where he was part of championship-winning teams in 2024 and 2026. Juolevi's return to Helsinki is a significant move for the club, which aims to leverage his skills. Olli-Pekka Yrjänheikki, Jokerit's sports director, praised Juolevi's exceptional vision and intelligence on the ice, stating, "Even at a young age, it was clear that he perceives the ice in an exceptional way. Game intelligence is his absolute strength. If he stays healthy, he is one of the league's best defensemen."

Juolevi was drafted into the NHL in 2016 by the Vancouver Canucks. He played 41 NHL games for the Canucks, Detroit Red Wings, and Florida Panthers. After returning to Europe for the 2023-24 season, his stint in Sweden's SHL with Timrå IK was cut short when he transferred to Tappara.

Juolevi's career has been significantly impacted by injuries. In his three seasons with Tappara, he managed to play only 27 regular-season games over the last two years. Despite these challenges, he was able to get into playing shape for the playoffs. In his first season with Tappara, Juolevi played 40 regular-season games and 16 playoff matches.

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Even at a young age, it was clear that he perceives the ice in an exceptional way. Game intelligence is his absolute strength. If he stays healthy, he is one of the league's best defensemen.