Goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen has been practicing with the Winnipeg Jets this week as Connor Hellebuyck remains with Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
ROSTER MOVES🫎: The #NHLJets have recalled G – Kaapo Kahkonen from the Moose as a practice player as allowed under NHL 4 Nations Face-Off rules
DETAILS >> https://t.co/GIpdhlobKg pic.twitter.com/BUqIOdFHoJ
— Manitoba Moose (@ManitobaMoose) February 18, 2025
Kahkonen signed with the Jets in the offseason but began the season with the Colorado Avalanche after they claimed him off of waivers. The Jets reclaimed Kahkonen from the Avalanche when they attempted to send him the minors. Since he was claimed, the 28-year-old has played 20 games with the Manitoba Moose, recording an .885 SV% and a 3.34 GAA to go along with a 6-13-0 record.
Kahkonen spent most of his NHL career as a backup goaltender or as a split starter with the Minnesota Wild and San Jose Sharks and posted quality numbers. In a brief stint with the New Jersey Devils after last year’s trade deadline, Kahkonen stringed together six high-quality games but has not found that form during the 2024-25 season.
The Helsinki, FIN native isn’t expected to get into any game action with the Jets anytime soon as he has been recalled as a practice player under the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off rules but is with the NHL club as they await Hellebuyck’s arrival following tonight’s gold medal game.
The Jets take on the St. Louis Blues on Saturday and don’t play again until Monday when they host the San Jose Sharks. If Hellebuyck requires rest on Saturday, Eric Comrie could make the start and allow Hellebuyck to retake his starting role for Monday’s game.
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