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One of the most promising prospects outside North America will be hopping on the first flight to Nashville once his KHL team Helsinki ''Jokerit'' will be eliminated from playoff contention.
Following Jokerit's last regular season game in Riga against Dinamo, I reached out to Tolvanen to ask certain questions and figure out his intentions, getting a pretty clear answer straight away.
Eeli Tolvanen has confirmed that he is signing with Preds once Jokerit is eliminated from playoffs.
— Aivis Kalniņš (@A_Kalnins) March 1, 2018
The whole Nashville then went on so-called ''#TolvanenWatch'' but now? Now it seems like it'll be done and over with.
Per Finnish media - Tolvanen and Preds have come to terms on an entry-level deal.
Tolvanen’s ELC is done deal. Immigration issues solved. Jokerit season likely over tomorrow. Then to Nashville. https://t.co/ElLin2v5Lo
— Juha Hiitelठ(@jhiitela) March 21, 2018
Predators are already a strong force that should go deep into the playoff contention, but now they are going to be even stronger and have more depth with the KHL record-breaking rookie (Potentially rookie of the year award winner) in their line-up.
What can people expect from him? One heck of a shot, ability to carry the puck and very strong skating ability. Tolvanen is also a player who isn't afraid to throw a hit even when a bigger guy has to be approached.
EELI GOALVANEN. Series over. #Preds pic.twitter.com/jvToDGZZqe
— Alex Nunn (@aj_ranger) March 9, 2018
With an assist on Jokerit's first goal this morning, Eeli Tolvanen now has 33 points, passing Evgeny Kuznetsov for sole possession of the most points by a U20 player in KHL history.https://t.co/FsVQYhgROg pic.twitter.com/co3JnaFoHw
— Eliteprospects (@eliteprospects) January 9, 2018
The main question in all of this? When will Jokerit be eliminated? March 22nd is the closest date that it could be possible but no matter what - Helsinki won't make it past round 2 and will fall short against CSKA.