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HC Craig Berube comments on Jani Hakanpaa's NHL readiness after D-man first full Leafs practice
Coach Craig Berube discussed Jani Hakanpaa's readiness for NHL games. Hakanpaa joined his first full practice with the Toronto Maple Leafs in Muskoka. However, Berube is unsure when the 32-year-old defenseman will be ready to play. Since training camp began, Hakanpaa has skated with injured players and the development group as he recovers from knee surgery.
During Wednesday's practice, Hakanpaa skated with other defensemen, marking progress in his recovery. Toronto didn't conduct line rushes, leaving questions about Hakanpaa's full integration into the team. Berube noted the importance of caution:
"Yeah, that's a tough one. I can't really answer that question right now. We have to wait and see, We got a little bit of time yet and see where he gets to and where he's at. He's got to be comfortable with getting in there and playing a game."
Berube also added that the coaching staff will keep a close eye on Hakanpaa's progress.
Jani Hakanpaa reflects on hard work and excitement of practicing with Maple Leafs
After removing his red non-contact jersey, Jani Hakanpaa felt both relief and excitement at the chance to practice fully.
"I think this was kind of like the first test to kind of see where we're at and how everything's going to go. We'll see where we are tomorrow morning and then we'll go from there again," Hakanpaa said.
He also called it a test to measure his progress and stressed the need for daily assessments to support his recovery.
Jani Hakanpaa has joined the Maple Leafs on a one-year deal worth $1.47 million. Before signing him, the team sent staff to Finland to check on his recovery. Hakanpaa enjoyed being on the ice with his new teammates, saying:
"It's been a long time coming for sure. Been doing a lot of work to get here, so it was a lot of fun. To actually be with the guys out there, get to know them a little more, it was a lot of fun," (hockeynews.com).
Jani Hakanpaa has nearly 300 NHL games of experience and is known for his penalty-killing skills. Although he didn't practice in that role, he took part in a 5-on-3 drill against Toronto's top forwards. Auston Matthews also noted Hakanpaa's size and presence, saying he could be a valuable addition to the team.
The Maple Leafs and Jani Hakanpaa are adopting a cautious strategy as he progresses through training camp.
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