After an unsuccessful stint with Auston Matthews and the Toronto Maple Leafs a veteran defenseman is eyeing a return to the NHL. Following an almost career-ending injury, it’s now redemption what’s at stake for the former Buds’ player.
Jani Hakanpaa played in just two NHL games with Matthews and the Leafs during the 2024-25 season. Mainly because of a knee injury that threatened to cut his playing career short.
However, the Finnish defenseman is now on the outside looking in and reports suggest several sides have shown interest in the 33-year-old. The blueliner had joined the Maple Leafs on a one-year, $1.47 million contract, but appeared in just two outings, failing to register any points.
Injuries have marred his career in the NHL through the years. Drafted with the 104th overall pick in 2010 by the St. Louis Blues, Hakanpaa didn’t make his debut until the 2019-20 season with the Anaheim Ducks. Since, he has played for the Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and the Leafs. Now, he has his sight fixed on the next step.
Jani Hakanpaa #2 of the Dallas Stars reacts after assisting on Joe Pavelski’s #16 first period goal against the Winnipeg Jets at American Airlines Center on February 29, 2024 in Dallas, Texas
“The intention would be to continue there. Now let’s see how we can get the contract work done,” Hakanpaa said, in dialogue with Finnish outlet Ilta-Sanomat. “A few teams have been interested since the start of the free agent market. But I want to wait a bit, watch and sum up what and when.”
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Good to go
Hakanpaa admitted he was cleared by the Maple Leafs’ medical staff to return to the ice during the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, head coach Craig Berube believed there was no place for him on the lineup. In many ways, it made sense as Hakanpaa’s last game was on November 2024.
“The doctors cleared me to play in the playoffs. My leg was in good condition and I was able to train well. That was a really positive sign for the future,” Hakanpaa added.
Same old
Hakanpaa has been off the ice for quite some time now. It’s undeniable the extended hiatus will have an impact on his performance and confidence when he next laces up the skates. Still, the veteran Finn is eager for the challenge.
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“It’s still a game. Of course, I can’t say, since I’ve never experienced anything like this before,” Jani Hakanpaa concluded. “But I’m sure I’ll still throw the puck at the glass and box the gang out of the goal line in the same way. My own playing has never been that great, so maybe that makes things a little easier, the tough-as-nails starting defender.”
