Jani Hakanpaa hopeful of return after mysterious knee injury, says HC Craig Berube

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Sep 22, 2024 04:48 GMT

Jani Hakanpaa, a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is recovering from a knee injury, which sidelined him for the end of the Dallas Stars' 2023-24 season, including the playoffs. Coach Craig Berube shared good news about Hakanpaa "getting better" and that he could practice with the team next week.

The Maple Leafs signed Hakanpaa to a one-year deal worth $1.47 million. The team made sure his recovery was on track before the signing. Berube mentioned that he speaks with Hakanpaa daily, and they discuss how he feels and about his recovery progress.

"He’s actually doing well," Berube said (via sportsnet.com).

"I talk to him daily about his situation, how he’s feeling, where he’s at, and he’s getting better, so I think it’s close. Hopefully, next week he’ll be in the group there with us."

This ongoing communication indicates a strong relationship between Jani Hakanpaa and the coaching staff as they work toward his return.

General manager Brad Treliving also noted that the performance staff checked on Hakanpaa during his rehab this summer. Treliving's belief in Hakanpaa's recovery is reassuring for the team and fans.

Jani Hakanpaa is a tall player, standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 225 pounds. He's known for his defensive skills rather than scoring. In his NHL career, he has 15 goals and 30 assists in 288 games.

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Jani Hakanpaa discussed recovery journey after knee injury ahead of Toronto Maple Leafs return

On Sept. 17, Jani Hakanpaa talked about his tough recovery from a serious knee injury, which almost ended his career. Sgned to the Toronto Maple Leafs for one year at $1.47 million, he's hopeful of returning to play soon.

At the Leafs' annual golf tournament, Hakanpaa said he feels close to coming back.

"Hopefully, as fast as possible. You’re itching. You’re itching at this time. We put a lot of work into all of that, so we’re getting close, but now just put the finishing touches on it and get back out there."

He also praised his support team in Finland for helping him stay confident. Hakanpaa described his recovery as a "roller-coaster" but maintained his belief in returning fully.

"In my mind, It’s been clear that I’m going to get back and the team I had around me back home in Finland had the same thoughts.

"That was the biggest key just to have people around me that trusted as well. And then obviously, it’s a little bit of a rollercoaster almost," Hakanpaa added.

Last season, he played 64 games, scoring two goals and making 10 assists before his injury.