2024 World Junior Summer Showcase: 3 things learned on Day 5 | NHL.com

Pikkarainen looks to impress

Kasper Pikkarainen, selected by the New Jersey Devils in the third round (No. 85) of the 2024 NHL Draft, had the rare opportunity to play in three different leagues last season and feels more than ready to earn a roster spot for Finland at the 2025 WJC. 

“I think it was a pretty tough season,” the right wing told NHL.com. “The games were different in Liiga and with the Under-18’s because the guys were bigger in Liiga and the game was faster. But I think it helped improve my game.

“Earning a spot with the Finland National Junior Team would mean everything. It will be like a dream come true to play in the World Juniors but I’m not thinking too far ahead right now.”

Pikkarainen (6-2, 190) had 28 points (12 goals, 16 assists) in 34 games for TPS Under-20, one assist in one game with the TPS U-18 and no points in five games for TPS in Liiga, Finland’s top professional men’s league. He also had seven points (two goals, five assists) in 12 playoff games with the U-20’s. 

His father, Ilkka Pikkarainen, was selected by the Devils in the seventh round (No. 218) of the 2002 NHL Draft. He had four points (one goal, three assists) in 31 games in 2009-10, his only NHL season.

“I was so young, I can’t remember much of my dad with the Devils, but he couldn’t help but laugh when the team selected me in the draft,” Kasper said.

Pikkaraninen, a power forward, will play for Red Deer of the Western Hockey League this season. He was chosen by the Rebels in the 2024 CHL import draft and signed with the Rebels on July 3.

“I want to work on my skating … the game is faster in North America, so I think my skating is one thing I need to improve,” he said. “When I’m playing my best, I’m hitting and making plays with the puck.”