Frustrated Kotkaniemi sends a message to his head coach Rod Brind'Amour
PUBLICATION
MarcOJune 3, 2022 (9:36)
We told you earlier this week that Jesperi Kotkaniemi's role has diminished this season despite all the talk about his usage in Montreal.
Ice time in Montreal in 2020-21: 15 minutes 2 seconds per game (1:54 on the power play/game)
Carolina ice time in 2021-22: 11 minutes 59 seconds per game (1:12 on the power play/game)
The numbers are clear.
He clearly didn't get the big role he hoped for, and the first season he wanted, with the Hurricanes. Now that KK and his team are out of the NHL playoffs, it was time for the famous recaps.
While clearing out his locker, Kotkaniemi spoke to the media for one last time:
"There were several ups and downs [...] At times [it was frustrating], but I knew my role. I did my best. I tried to be hungry every time I was on the ice." - Jesperi Kotkaniemi
The Finn admitted that he ultimately did not have the season he had hoped for, and that at times he was frustrated with his situation as well as his usage.
The former third overall pick of the Montreal Canadiens is clear. He wants a bigger role for next year, as reported by TVA Sports:
"I feel like I'm ready to take on more playing minutes..."
That would be his special request for next fall, and his message to his head coach Rod Brind'Amour.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi doesn't want to push things too hard either, and he's willing to accept his fate, but one thing's for sure, he wants more for next year. (of points, minutes and success)
Remember, he just signed a lucrative eight-year, $38.56 million contract. For details:
| POLL | ||
3 JUIN | 606 ANSWERS Frustrated Kotkaniemi sends a message to his head coach Rod Brind'Amour In the NHL, in 5 years, Jesperi Kotkaniemi will be a...? | ||
| 1st line Center | 63 | 10.4 % |
| 2nd line Center | 128 | 21.1 % |
| 3rd line Center | 280 | 46.2 % |
| 4th line Center | 135 | 22.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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