This Just In
Florida Panthers signed Santtu Kinnunen to a two-year entry-level contract for this Finnish defenseman. Panthers’ General Manager, Bill Zito has announced this today. This is already an exciting time for the Panthers as they are getting ready for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. As the roster continues to grow, this talented defenseman will show his ability and grow as an NHL player. 
Who is Santtu Kinnunen?
Santtu Kinnunen is a 23-year-old defenseman from Lahti, Finland. According to Elite Prospects, he stands tall at 6’2″ weighing 161 pounds. He was drafted in the 7th round of the NHL Draft. Making him the 207th pick overall. His youth team was the Lahti Pelicans and has been playing with the Pelicans until the 2020-2021 season. He has been playing for the Tappara for the past two seasons.
“Santtu is a talented defenseman who has proven himself playing professionally in Finland with Tappara Tampere,” said Zito. “We look forward to watching him further his growth and development as he transitions to hockey in North America.”
NHL.com, and Florida Panthers. “Florida Panthers Agree to Terms with Defenseman Santtu Kinnunen.” NHL.com, NHL.com, 2 May 2022, https://www.nhl.com/panthers/news/florida-panthers-agree-to-terms-with-defenseman-santtu-kinnunen/c-333661326.
Kinnunen as a Panther
The Panthers have a strong defensive core. With the veterans such as Petteri Lindbohm, Ben Chiarot, Brandon Montour, MacKenzie Weegar, and Radko Gudas, Kinnunen will have no trouble fitting into the Panthers’ roster. What makes him a good defenseman is his speed and his ability to reach on time. It would not be a surprise that he has the ability. What also makes him a great player is his ability to move the puck away from the defensive zone and can score.
Will Kinnunen Fit in with the Panthers?
With a roster like the Panthers, there is no doubt that Kinnunen will be able to flourish under “Sophomore” players and veterans alike. From the way he plays and his ability to score as a defenseman, it is very possible for him to not only fit in but also prosper. He will also do well in NHL even if he does get traded to a different team or stay with the Panthers.
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