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Joonas KemppainenFinnish ice hockey player, center forward
Date of Birth: 07.04.1988
Country:  Finland |
Content:
- Early Life and Youth Career
- Professional Debut
- Success with HPK
- Kiekko-Espoo and National Team Debut
- NHL Journey
- Move to Russia
Early Life and Youth Career
Joonas Kemppainen was born and raised in Kajaani, Finland. He played youth hockey for his hometown team, Kajaani Hokki, before joining the Espoo Blues organization in 2003. With Espoo, Kemppainen excelled in the Finnish youth leagues and helped the team win the SM-liiga Juniors championship in 2005.
Professional Debut
In 2006, Kemppainen signed a professional contract with HPK Hameenlinna and made his SM-liiga debut that same year. He split the 2007-08 season between HPK and Jukurit of Mestis, Finland's second-tier league.
Success with HPK
Kemppainen established himself as a regular contributor for HPK during the 2008-09 season, scoring 22 points in 54 games. In 2009-10, he helped HPK to a silver medal in the SM-liiga, tallying 26 points.
Kiekko-Espoo and National Team Debut
In 2010, Kemppainen signed a three-year deal with Oulun Kärpät. He made his international debut at the 2015 World Championship, where he represented Finland.
NHL Journey
In 2015, Kemppainen crossed the Atlantic and signed a two-way contract with the Boston Bruins. He played primarily with the Bruins' American Hockey League affiliate, the Providence Bruins, during the 2015-16 season. However, he made his NHL debut in 2016-17 and became a regular contributor for Boston over the next three seasons.
Move to Russia
In 2020, Kemppainen signed a two-year contract with Salavat Yulaev Ufa of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He has emerged as a key player for Ufa, helping the team to the Gagarin Cup playoffs in both of his seasons with the club.
