The Finnisher will return.
The Dallas Stars have completed another important offseason task by securing the services of Joel Kiviranta for at least the next two years.
The left wing from Vantaa – whose barn-burning performance in the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs earned him nicknames such as The Finnisher and JFK (Joel F—ing Kiviranta) – will earn $2.1 million over the next two years, at a cap hit of $1.05 million per year.
Here’s how the Stars reported the signing:
Kiviranta, 25, recorded a career-high 11 points (6-5=11) in 26 regular-season games during the 2020-21 season. The forward logged a 12:10 average time on ice per game and notched 40 hits and seven takeaways. He registered a +3 plus/minus rating and was an even-or-plus skater in 18 of his 26 contests. Additionally, the Stars earned a 7-0-1 record in games in which he recorded a point.
The forward has appeared in 37 career NHL games, all with Dallas, registering 12 points (7-5=12). Kiviranta made his postseason debut during the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, recording six points (5-1=6) with 12:47 TOI/G. He has also appeared in 48 career AHL contests, logging 23 points (12-11=23) and 81 shots on goal.
“Joel has developed into a very reliable player who can play various roles throughout the lineup,” said Nill. “His competitiveness, and ability to play in all situations, has made him an important member of our forward group..”
On the international stage, Kiviranta helped his country earn a gold medal at the 2019 World Championship in Slovakia skating in nine games and recording three points (2-1=3). He scored the game-winning goal against France in the preliminary round.
The 5-foot-11, 180-pound native of Vantaa, Finland was originally undrafted and signed with Dallas as a free agent on May 31, 2019.
You can read the full release at the Stars’ website. [Dallas Stars]
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