WJC: Rantanen with an assist
The Avalanche prospect registered an assist in Finland’s thrashing of Slovakia.A total of four games were played at the World Juniors today, one of them featuring Avalanche prospect Mikko Rantanen. The Finnish captain and his teammates squared off against Slovakia, wanting to get back on track after a string of mediocre performances. Before the game, the Finnish national team retired the jersey of Finnish legend and former Avalanche player Teemu Selanne. The ceremony made the young Finns even hungrier for a win.
Before the opening faceoff, Finland retired the jersey of NHL legend Teemu Selanne
Finnish head coach Jukka Jalonen decided to demote Rantanen and his linemate Roope Hintz from the first to the third line, where they were joined by forward Antti Kalapudas. Kasperi Kapanen, their former offensive partner, centered Finland’s second line. The changes proved to be a good choice, as Finland thrashed Slovakia 8-3 despite a slow start, which saw the hosts go down 0-2 midway through the opening period. Although Rantanen was demoted, he and his linemates were a constant threat on the ice and caused major problems for the Slovak defense. Despite his great performance, Rantanen only recorded an assist and a single shot on goal. Through three games, Rantanen has a goal and an assist.
Michal Hezely, Slovakia, hezely@eurolanche.com
30/12/2015 - 22:00
