Edmonton, AB – Atro Leppänen, a Finnish defenseman who has rapidly ascended through the hockey ranks, is generating significant buzz within the Edmonton Oilers organization during their training camp and preseason. The 26-year-old blueliner is drawing attention for his impressive performances, earning him more opportunities to showcase his skills. Leppänen's journey to this point is remarkable, highlighted by a record-breaking season in Finland's Liiga, where he set a new benchmark for points by a defenseman.

Leppänen's offensive prowess was on full display in his historic Liiga season, where he amassed an impressive 21 goals and 63 points, shattering the previous record for a defenseman. This offensive ability has translated seamlessly into his preseason play with the Oilers, catching the eye of notable figures like Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer, who remarked, "Atro Leppanen can make plays." The defenseman's puck-moving skills and offensive instincts have also earned praise from head coach Kris Knoblauch, who stated that Leppänen's play with the puck is "definitely" at an NHL level.

Despite his strong showing, Leppänen faces stiff competition for a roster spot on the Oilers' left side, which is already crowded with established players like Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, Jake Walman, and Brett Kulak. While his offensive game is NHL-ready, his decision-making and defensive play are areas that will need continued development as he adjusts to the North American game. Many anticipate he will begin the season with the Oilers' AHL affiliate in Bakersfield, where he can further refine his game on North American ice.

Leppänen's path to professional hockey in North America has been unconventional. He spent four years in Finland's second-tier Mestis league before making his Liiga debut at the age of 24. His late emergence has been a testament to his dedication and hard work, overcoming humble beginnings in his hometown of Mantta. This rapid development has not gone unnoticed, with many observers impressed by his quick adaptation to new leagues and teams.

The Edmonton Oilers signed Leppänen to a one-year contract worth $975,000, with a cap hit of the same amount. His contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season, making him an unrestricted free agent. While he may not be ready for an everyday NHL role immediately, Leppänen's skillset and rapid development suggest he could become a valuable asset for the Oilers, either in the NHL or as a trade piece, should he continue to impress.