The Islanders have found a place for another one of their youngsters to play while we wait for NHL training camps to begin. The team announced (Twitter link) that they’ve loaned forward Otto Koivula to HIFK in Finland.
The 22-year-old made his NHL debut last season, playing in a dozen games for New York where he was held off the scoresheet. However, he fared well at the AHL level with Bridgeport, tallying nine goals and 13 assists in 36 games although those numbers were down from his 46 points (21-25-46) in his rookie season. Koivula was on New York’s playoff roster although he didn’t get into any games.
Depending on what the Islanders do with their fourth line for next season, there could be an opening or two on the roster so a good start for Koivula could certainly give him a leg up heading into training camp. If not, he’ll likely be one of the first recalls during the season when injuries arise.