FORT LAUDERDALE - Emil Pieniniemi is settling into his new hockey home with a familiar advantage: a growing Finnish presence around the Florida Panthers.
The 21-year-old defenseman, acquired earlier this month from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for the rights to forward Oliver Okuliar, spoke after Day 2 of development camp about the move, his first impressions of South Florida, and the comfort that comes from having Finnish teammates and connections in the organization.
“Obviously super excited and happy to be part of Panthers organization.”
That was Pieniniemi’s reaction to trade day, and the excitement has carried over into camp.
“It feels great. I feel like it's a really good organization, and I'm really happy to get started.”
Pieniniemi said the first look at the area and the team’s facility made a strong impression.
“It’s great. Florida is obviously one of the best places in the world, and the rink is really nice too.”
The camp setting, he explained, is giving him a chance to ease in while sharpening his game.
“Just get to know coaches and the other prospects, and just to get better every day on the ice.”
He also said he wants to take away small details from the experience.
“Just hope to learn some little things through my game.”
Off the ice, Pieniniemi is looking forward to getting around South Florida.
“Just go walk around and see some places, and go to some of the restaurants.”
The Finnish blueliner’s transition should be smoother thanks to the number of countrymen in the organization. He said that connection matters, especially because he already trains with Niko Mikkola during the summer.
“It helps a lot. I actually train with Niko Mikkola during the summer, so I can ask him questions.”
Pieniniemi added that Mikkola sets the right example.
“Works hard every day, and just being a great guy.”
Pieniniemi arrives in Florida after his first professional season in North America, one that included time with both Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Wheeling. He posted three points, including one goal and two assists, with a plus-5 rating in nine games for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, then added 11 points - six goals and five assists - with a plus-2 rating in 11 games for the Wheeling Nailers.
He also made his mark in the Kelly Cup Playoffs, leading all Wheeling defensemen with eight points, including one goal and seven assists, in 15 games.
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