Finland’s national hockey team faces internal turmoil as they prepare for a crucial matchup against Tre Kronor.
Reports indicate growing discontent within the team, with players discussing potential changes to the coaching staff, according to Ilta-Sanomat.
Antti Pennanen
Foto: DAVID W CERNY / BILDBYRÅN
Foto: CARL SANDIN / BILDBYRÅN
The Finnish squad has struggled recently under head coach Antti Pennanen, with underwhelming performances in both the 4 Nations tournament and last year’s World Championship.
Ilta-Sanomat reports that the team’s NHL stars have discussed the possibility of bringing in recent voices to the coaching staff, and potentially replacing Pennanen altogether.
Sources indicate that players floated the name of Paul Maurice, the current head coach of the Florida Panthers and a two-time Stanley Cup winner, as a potential candidate before the upcoming Olympics.
Reports suggest Maurice expressed interest during initial conversations.
“I have nothing more to say”
Finland’s General Manager Jere Lehtinen acknowledged the discussions but declined to comment further, stating that nothing had been finalized.
“We have our own team here, and it would be a different matter if there was something concrete,” Lehtinen told Ilta-Sanomat. “I have nothing more to say about it, as there hasn’t been anything concrete.”
The Finnish Lions suffered a shocking 1–4 loss to Slovakia in their Olympic opener, and will face a heated rivalry game against Tre Kronor at 12:10 PM on Friday.
