Kraken’s Kakko, Tolvanen Compete for Olympic Medal
Two standout players from the Seattle Kraken, Kaapo Kakko and Eeli Tolvanen, are making waves at the ongoing Olympic Games. Both athletes are striving for an Olympic medal while representing Finland in ice hockey.
Player Profiles and Performances
Eeli Tolvanen has made a significant impact in the tournament, contributing solidly to the team’s performance. Despite netting only one goal so far, his overall gameplay has been commendable. He plays alongside prominent forwards such as Mikko Rantanen and Sebastian Aho, sharing the burden of scoring responsibilities.
This season marks a high point for Tolvanen, who is on track for a career-best in points. Averaging 16:21 minutes of ice time, he excels in various roles, including even-strength, power play, and penalty killing. Kraken’s General Manager, Jason Botterill, praised Tolvanen’s versatility, acknowledging his importance to the national team.
Kakko’s Olympic Journey
Kaapo Kakko, also representing Finland, has an impressive Olympic history. He previously showcased his talent at the 2018 World U18 Championship and was a crucial player in the 2019 World Juniors, where he clinched gold. His significant contributions included scoring key goals, notably the championship-winning overtime goal.
After participating in the IIHF World Championship, where he scored six goals in ten matches, Kakko has solidified his reputation as a top performer on the international stage. Now, he aims to add an Olympic gold medal to his extensive list of accolades.
Shared Heritage and Goals
Both players have strong ties to their Finnish heritage, which fuels their pride on the ice. Botterill highlighted the efforts of the Kraken organization to recruit players with a history of success in big tournaments. Their achievements at past competitions reflect their talent and determination.
- Tolvanen’s Olympic appearances include:
- 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games – 9 points in 5 games
- 2022 IIHF World Championship – 7 goals, 2 assists
- World Juniors (2017-2019) – Gold medal in 2019
- Kakko’s remarkable achievements include:
- Gold at the 2019 World Juniors – 2 goals, 3 assists
- IIHF World Championship 2019 – 6 goals, 1 assist
- Gold at the 2018 World U18 Championships
Looking Ahead
The opportunity to compete for Olympic gold could serve as a pivotal moment for both Kakko and Tolvanen. With the Kraken aiming for a successful 2025-26 season, their performances at the Olympics are critical. As they represent their country, both players are poised to elevate their careers and the team’s aspirations moving forward.
