Finland Relies on Lehtonen’s Olympic Gold Experience
Team Finland is gearing up for the Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026, featuring a mostly NHL roster. Standing out among them is Mikko Lehtonen, who brings invaluable Olympic gold experience from the 2022 Beijing Games. His contributions are crucial as Finland aims for another medal.
Finland’s Olympic History and Gold Medal Experiences
Mikko Lehtonen, a defenseman, played in 26 NHL games during the 2020-21 season, splitting his time between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Columbus Blue Jackets. At the Beijing Olympics, where NHL players were absent, Lehtonen played a pivotal role in helping Finland secure its first and only gold medal in men’s hockey.
Insights from Mikko Lehtonen
Reflecting on the Beijing experience, Lehtonen said, “It was obviously an amazing thing. Winning that gold medal is a huge thing.” He noted the challenges posed by COVID-19 during that tournament, but emphasized the positive memories it generated.
Current Team Dynamics and Player Contributions
Lehtonen now plays for the ZSC Lions in Switzerland’s National League. With NHL stars returning to the Olympics for the first time since 2014, Finland boasts a roster filled with top-tier talent. Lehtonen hopes his prior Olympic insights can enhance team performance in Milano Cortina.
Supporting Olympic Veterans
Alongside Lehtonen, other experienced players like Miro Heiskanen and Eeli Tolvanen add depth to Finland’s roster. Heiskanen, a defenseman for the Dallas Stars, reflects on his Olympic debut at just 18 years old during the 2018 PyeongChang Games. “It was cool. You always dream about the Olympics when you’re younger. It’s something I remember for the rest of my life,” he shared.
Tolvanen, currently with the Seattle Kraken, also shares a similar journey from the PyeongChang Games, adding to the team’s collective experience.
Conclusion: The Impact of Experience
Finland’s Olympic squad, strengthened by the experience of veterans like Lehtonen, Heiskanen, and Tolvanen, looks poised for success in the upcoming Games. Their combined experiences from past tournaments are expected to be instrumental in navigating the competitive landscape of international hockey.
