Juhamatti Aaltonen
Finland- Early Career and NHL Draft
- Success with Kärpät
- Breakthrough Season with Pelicans
- Move to Russia
- International Success
Early Career and NHL Draft
Juhamatti Aaltonen, a Finnish professional ice hockey forward, began his career with his hometown club, Kärpät, in 2004. Prior to this, he played for Kärpät's farm team. In 2003, he was selected in the 9th round (284th overall) by the St. Louis Blues in the NHL Entry Draft.
Success with Kärpät
Aaltonen spent the next five years with Kärpät, during which time he won four Finnish Championships and reached the finals of the European Champions Cup twice.
Breakthrough Season with Pelicans
In 2009, Aaltonen transferred to Pelicans and immediately became the SM-Liiga's leading scorer that season, with 28 goals and 21 assists in 58 games.
Move to Russia
Despite interest from SKA Saint Petersburg, Aaltonen signed with Metallurg Magnitogorsk in Russia in 2010. In his debut season, he emerged as a top scorer with 48 points (26 goals and 22 assists) in 74 games.
International Success
Aaltonen has represented Finland internationally at the 2003 World Junior Championships and the 2010 and 2011 World Championships, winning a gold medal with the team in 2011. He has also been part of Finland's Euro Hockey Tour squads.
