Mikael Granlund met the Lions’ prodigy for the first time.
Prague
If someone, yes Mikael Granlund know what it’s like to become the gold medalist of the entire nation in the World Cup in front of an audience of millions as a player under twenty.
Granlund inflated himself on top of Suomikiekko’s cabinet and as far as a postcard in the spring 2011 World Championships. Those games ended with the Lions’ golden celebration, and Granlund, then 19, grew from a one-time phenomenon.
At the World Championships starting on Friday in Prague, the incredible development story of the next Finnish super-promise may be written in the limelight.
Only 17 years old Konsta Helenius was selected as the youngest ever player for Leijon.
The Lions’ number one star Granlund has been impressed by Helenius at first sight.
“Gambler. That’s the first thing that comes to mind. It’s great to see,” Granlund announced after Wednesday’s ice practice.
Granlund especially admired Helenius’ skill level and adaptability. The great promise who shone in Jukurei in the finished league season has already played in the under-20 and under-18 World Championships this season.
“You can see how much such young players can grow during one season and develop in an instant. It means having the senses of a gambler and being able to adapt to a new level,” said Granlund.
“It has been great to see his development. Very good, cool dude.”
Helenius (left) trained as an extra forward in Wednesday’s practice.
Granlund, 32, didn’t go so far as to compare Helenius to his younger self, but after a little research, similarities can be found.
“Probably a certain skill to play. Such a gambler. When I remember myself then, very quickly I got to a whole new level. First the SM league, EHT and then even the World Cup. When you have a certain skill bank and know how to play, you can adapt to a new level quickly.”
“In that way, we have something in common, but of course it’s crazy that you can be here at the age of 17,” Granlund sneered.
It’s not a good idea to get into stamp shops just yet.
Based on Wednesday, Helenius’ World Cup debutant will not see the light of day until Friday, when the Lions face the Czech Republic in the opening match of the Games. Helenius was an extra attacker in Wednesday’s training.
Granlund’s there is no need to guess the role. The star of the San Jose Sharks is not only a clear number one striker in Leijon, but also an important role model.
Jukka Jalonen In addition to Helenius, the World Cup team he is coaching has a lot of first timers who look up to Granlund.
“It won’t be a burden. I’m just showing an example of how I do things. What I managed to exchange a few words with Helenius, I just said to let it go. These are unique things,” reminded Granlund.
“Every single guy is here for a reason and everyone has done the right things to make it to this team. You have to enjoy these moments.”
Granlund last time we saw each other at the World Championships two years ago. In the home games of spring 2022, he shone as the Lions’ best forward, when the poppoo piloted by Jalonen celebrated the world championship.
This spring’s bundle has a different profile.
“There are a lot of first timers. It brings new enthusiasm. The legs have a fresh team and a fresh mood. It was easy to come here,” Granlund mused.
Granlund’s season in the NHL’s throw-bag team, the Sharks, was tough. Turpa came from one night to another.
On a personal level, the Finnish star played a competent season. Granlund was the Sharks’ best scorer with 12+48=60.
“Lion shirt. That’s the biggest thing I came here for. It’s always unique to get to represent Finland. As a little boy, it was always one of the biggest things. I’m always involved when it’s possible”, Granlund explained his trip to the World Cup.
Granlund leads the Lions’ number one chain and number one superiority.
Even though Granlund is the self-righted conductor of the Lions’ attack at the World Cup, he doesn’t want to emphasize his own contribution any more – no matter what.
Based on training, Granlund will lead the Lions’ first line in the World Cup opening, flanked by World Cup debutants Juha Jääskä and Valtteri Puustinen.
“I do my own thing and try to kill guys if there’s a need for it,” Granlund described his role.
“There are only good players in these games. Everyone does their own thing and knows why they are here. There is no need for anyone to do anything else here.”
The Lions will face the Czech Republic at 21:20 in Friday night’s World Cup opener.