Finland forward Joona Saarelainen (21) follows the play against Canada during the 2024 World Junior Summer Showcase at USA Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn ImagesTampa Bay Lightning prospect Joona Saarelainen was named to Team Finland's U-20 roster for their home tournament.
Ahead of next week’s World Junior Summer Challenge in Minnesota, a series of games involving four U-20 teams will take place in Vierumäki, Finland, on Sunday and Monday. Two teams from Finland – essentially an A-team and a B-team – will host the Czech and Swiss national junior teams once each.
Saarelainen will feature on Team Finland's A roster, which includes several 2025 World Junior returnees and multiple players who will likely feature on Finland's 2026 roster.
The 19-year-old was a part of Finland's silver medal-winning team, recording one assist in seven games. The 5-foot-9 is known for his speed and two-way capabilities. His playmaking extends far beyond nifty passes into the slot, as he is a great puck carrier in transition. Despite being undersized, Saarelainen plays with a relentless motor, attempting to win pucks back at all costs.
The Lightning selected Saarelainen in the fifth round (149th overall) in the 2024 NHL Draft after he lit up Finland's U-20 league for 13 goals and 36 points in 43 games. His D+1 season saw him play in 21 Liiga games, Finland's top professional league, where he scored two goals and five points with KalPa.
As a returnee, Saarelainen will likely see his role with the team increased after playing bottom-six minutes at last year's event. His speed and two-way game bode well for short tournaments like the World Juniors, and he could be a difference maker as they attempt to avenge their finals loss.
