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Finland's WJC success helps players
Written by: Mikko Vuori on 01/17/2001 
2001 eligibles Tuomo Ruutu and Mikko Koivu were centering two top lines. These two players are considered the future leaders of Finnish hockey. Another 2001 eligible forward Tuomas Pihlman wasn't able to get any points, but he isn't supposed to be a scorer.
Ville Hämäläinen was the biggest surprise. Second line winger had a very good tournament. Hämäläinen had 7 points in seven games. Hämäläinen is still undrafted, but he might get picked in next draft.
Another Edmonton prospect Tony Salmelainen missed last season with injuries. Salmelainen is a small player, but he really has good speed. He was third in team's scoring.
Tuukka Mäntylä (5 points +8) took the leading role in defense. Mäntylä hasn't been drafted yet, mainly because of his size (5'9). Mäntylä is good with the puck and is also good skater. Mäntyla was selected to play for Team Finland in Swedish Hockey Games.
Arto Tukio's injury during team's carting session really hurt Finnish defense. Markku Paukkanen was able to step up. He had two points and was a +7 in the tournament.
Ari Ahonen had a good tournament. He outgoaled Maxim Oullette in the semifinal game. In the finals he let in two goals, but he can't be blamed for them. The Devils wanted Ahonen to play for Albany this season but he stayed in Finland. He should be playing in the AHL next season.
2002 eligible goalie Kari Lehtonen played in one game, 2-2 tie with Canada. Lehtonen is obviosly a huge talent. He will be a top player in 2002 Entry Draft.
NHL teams will probably draft more Finnish players this summer due to Finland's good performance in WJC. Most of the players were still undrafted. Hämäläinen and Mäntyla could be picked after their great performance.
Copyright 2001 Hockey’s Future. Do not reprint or otherwise duplicate without permission of the editorial staff.
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