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Mikko KoskinenFinnish ice hockey player, goalkeeper.
Date of Birth: 18.07.1988
Country:  Finland |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- NHL Draft and Debut
- NHL Struggles and Return to Finland
- KHL Breakthrough
- SKA Stardom
- International Success
- Continued Excellence
Early Life and Career
Mikko Koskinen'sjourney to the top of the hockey world began as a youth player for Espoo Blues in his native Finland.
NHL Draft and Debut
In 2009, Koskinen made history as the first Finnish goalie drafted in the NHL's second round (31st overall) by the New York Islanders. He inked a three-year entry-level contract with the Islanders in 2009.
NHL Struggles and Return to Finland
Koskinen struggled to find his footing in the NHL, playing only four games in 2010/11. In 2011, he returned to Finland to join KalPa Kuopio. However, limited success there led him back to Espoo Blues.
KHL Breakthrough
In 2013, Koskinen moved to the KHL's Siberia Novosibirsk, where he found renewed success. He was named the KHL's Goaltender of the Month and earned a spot in the 2014 All-Star Game.
SKA Stardom
In December 2014, Koskinen was traded to SKA Saint Petersburg for Alexander Salak. He quickly established himself as the team's starting goalie and won the Gagarin Cup in his first season with SKA. He also received individual honors as the Playoff MVP and the KHL's Goaltender of the Year.
International Success
Since 2011, Koskinen has represented Finland in international competition. He was a silver medalist at the 2014 and 2016 World Championships, earning Best Goaltender honors and a spot on the tournament's All-Star Team in 2016.
Continued Excellence
SKA extended Koskinen's contract in 2016 for two more seasons. He has remained an integral part of the team's success, winning another Gagarin Cup in 2017 and continuing to perform at a high level on both the national and club levels.
