Jokerit withdraws from KHL playoffs; jerseys and banners being removed from Russian-owned arena

Jokerit Helsinki, the only Finnish team playing in the KHL, has officially withdrawn from the Gagarin Cup playoffs. The post season is scheduled to begin on March 1st.

"In the current world situation, it would be impossible to continue the season," said Jari Kurri, Chairman of the team's Board of Directors.

"In accordance with the rules of the KHL, we had a dialogue and were able to announce the decision just now. The world is in a very difficult situation. We sympathize with those who are suffering under the circumstances. We hope that a solution will be found soon," Kurri continued.

This decision is, of course, based on Russia's decision to invade Ukraine. Finland has long had its own issues with Russia and the former Soviet Union. It comes after a major sponsor pulled out of its deal with Jokerit due to the conflict.

Meanwhile, the Finnish Hockey Association has said it's in the process of removing all retired jerseys and Championship banners from Jokerit's home stadium, Hartwall Arena, which is owned by a Russian company. A future location for the memorabilia will be decided at a later date.

While Jokerit hasn't yet announced plans for next season, there is a possibility for a return to the Finnish Elite League. The team made the jump to the KHL in 2014. Meanwhile, there is word out of Finland that Jokerit players are being offered to team's in SM-Liiga as they finish out their season.

Source: Sports24.ru

MUST READ

Feb 28  |  By Tom Banks Vancouver Canucks' Contract Offer to Brock Boeser Leaks Publicly

Feb 28  |  By Tom Banks Montreal Canadiens Star Undergoes Season-Ending Knee Surgery

Feb 28  |  By Daniel Lucente Philadelphia Flyers Officially Looking to Trade Former 39-Goal Scorer

Feb 28  |  By Daniel Lucente Evander Kane May Be in His Final Days in Edmonton After Friedman Reveals New Information

Feb 28  |  By Jack Sutherland Maple Leafs Forward Pulls Back Trade Request

Feb 27  |  By Jack Sutherland Brad Marchand Goes Viral for Passionate Video Ahead of Four Nations Faceoff Final

Feb 27  |  By Jack Sutherland David Pastrnak's Latest Comments Suggest Bruins Will Be Big Sellers at the Deadline

Feb 27  |  By Julien Trekker 6-Foot-6 Winger Linked to the New York Rangers at the Trade Deadline

MORE STORIES