Good news about Pokka! Glad he is in.
Let’s see what happens with Barkov.
I'm not expecting much of Pokka. I think he will look lost out there in Euro sized rink, having spent so long in AHL now. Not surprised he got selected as he has that Kärppä background, but I'm glad he gets an opportunity like this where he can hopefully show some NHL teams that he could be NHL player. However I rather see Juolevi in WHC over Pokka. Hopefully both get invites.
I'm happy if our defense is formed of these players:
Lindell
Honka
Lepistö
Heiskanen
Juolevi
Hietanen
Pokka
Kukkonen
Nutivaara - Washington vs Columbus
Vatanen - Tampa vs New Jersey
Määttä - Pittsburgh vs Philadelphia
Nutivaara seems the likeliest to come after first round of playoffs. Washington should tbe the favorite against Columbus. I think New Jersey could surprise Tampa, something like 60%-40% odds favoring Tampa IMO. We won't get Määttä I guess. Maybe after second playoff round though?
Would love to see Niku in WHC as well but I guess he's locked in AHL and NHL playoffs. Jokipakka looked pretty good in KHL playoffs, didn't he? Wouldn't mind getting him either if many in that list declines.