This former Bruins forward landed a great opportunity.

Former Boston Bruins defenseman Urho Vaakanainen has landed a great opportunity, as he has been named to Finland's roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Finland recently lost two notable defensemen for the tournament. Dallas Stars blueliner Miro Heiskanen and Toronto Maple Leafs defender Jani Hakanpaa are both sidelined due to injuries. As a result, Vaakanainen will now have the chance to represent his country at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Vaakanainen has appeared in 27 games this season, split between the Anaheim Ducks and New York Rangers, posting six assists, 12 hits, and a plus-2 rating. The left-shot blueliner was traded to the Rangers as a part of the Jacob Trouba deal back in December.

Vaakanainen was once a top prospect for the Bruins, as the Original Six club selected him with the 18th overall pick of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. In 31 games over four seasons as a Bruin, he had six assists and a minus-2 rating. His time as a Bruin ended when he was dealt to Anaheim in the deal that brought Hampus Lindholm to Boston in 2021-22. 

Stay updated with the most interesting Bruins stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.