leevi meriläinen

Leevi Meriläinen is a rising star in the world of ice hockey, particularly known for his impressive performances as a goaltender for the Ottawa Senators in the NHL
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. Born on August 13, 2002, in Oulu, Finland, Meriläinen has quickly made a name for himself with his remarkable skills and determination
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Meriläinen was drafted 71st overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft
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. Before making his mark in North America, he played for Oulun Kärpät in Finland’s top-tier Liiga and the Kingston Frontenacs in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
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. His journey in professional hockey began with impressive performances in Finland, where he posted a .934 save percentage in the 2020-21 season with Kärpät’s under-20 team
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In the 2021-22 season, Meriläinen joined the Kingston Frontenacs, where he experienced mixed results but still managed to become one of the league leaders in wins and saves
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. Despite a less than desirable sub-.900 save percentage and a 3.29 goals against average (GAA), his potential was evident
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. He returned to Finland for the 2022-23 Liiga season, rejoining Oulun Kärpät and establishing himself as the team’s starter
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. He had a fantastic year, posting a 2.02 GAA and a .918 save percentage, setting the league record for most shutouts by a rookie with eight
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Meriläinen’s North American professional debut came in April 2023 with the Belleville Senators, Ottawa’s AHL affiliate
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. He played his first game against the Toronto Marlies, posting a 41-save shutout
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. Shortly after, he was recalled by Ottawa and made his NHL debut against the Carolina Hurricanes, posting 34 saves in a 3-2 overtime loss
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The 2024-25 season has been particularly noteworthy for Meriläinen
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. Initially destined to spend the season in the minors, he was called up to the NHL when Linus Ullmark was injured
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. Meriläinen seized the opportunity and quickly showed that he could handle the NHL game
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. His season debut was a tough 5-4 overtime win against the Vancouver Canucks, followed by a 30-save 3-1 win over the Minnesota Wild
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. He faced setbacks, including a tough 4-2 loss to the Dallas Stars, but rebounded with a 29-save shutout in a 5-0 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking his first NHL shutout
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Meriläinen’s stellar performances have earned him a 4-2-0 record with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage
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. His ability to handle high-pressure situations and his steady development suggest that he could become a crucial part of the Senators’ goaltending rotation
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. The big question remains: what happens when Ullmark returns