Oliver Kapanen's Olympic journey may not have unfolded as he initially hoped, but the Montreal Canadiens rookie is heading home with a bronze medal that makes the experience unforgettable. Despite being dressed for two of Finland’s games before the bronze medal clash, Kapanen didn't see any ice time until an injury to star winger Mikko Rantanen opened the door for his Olympic debut.
Bronze Medal Triumph
Just a day after a tough loss to Canada, Finland had to regroup quickly for their showdown against Slovakia. Slovakia had previously upset Finland in the tournament opener, thanks to a stellar performance from Kapanen’s Canadiens teammate, Juraj Slafkovsky. Kapanen, who had been the 13th forward, found himself on the top line with Sebastian Aho and former Canadien Artturi Lehkonen.
Finland struck first, and while Kapanen didn’t notch a point, his presence in front of the net drew defenders away, allowing Aho to capitalize on a loose rebound. Kapanen’s seamless fit on the first line raised eyebrows and left many wondering why he hadn’t been given earlier opportunities.
The teams traded goals in the second period, but Finland took control in the third. A Slovakia penalty early in the period gave Kapanen a chance to extend the lead, but his shot hit the post.
Finland soon put the game out of reach with two quick goals, dashing Slovakia’s hopes for consecutive bronze medals. Finland triumphed 6-1, with Kapanen logging over 16 minutes of ice time and one shot.
Though he didn’t score, he returns to Montreal with a bronze medal and a newfound sense of accomplishment.
Back to the Canadiens
Kapanen won’t have much time to bask in Olympic glory, as the NHL schedule resumes on February 25th. The Canadiens are eager to see a motivated Kapanen return for the season's final stretch.
While his role in Finland’s bronze medal run was limited, he remains a key player for the Canadiens. Kapanen and Slafkovsky will transition from Olympic rivals back to linemates, and the Canadiens hope they can recapture their pre-break chemistry.
The “Kid Line” of Kapanen, Slafkovsky, and Ivan Demidov has been a standout for the Canadiens, especially during injury challenges. While Demidov missed the Olympic spotlight, Kapanen and Slafkovsky come back from Italy brimming with confidence-a timely boost with playoffs looming.