Last week, the Calgary Flames grabbed attention by officially finalizing the signing of Hunter Brzustewicz to his rookie contract. Building on that momentum, they have now secured another significant player stemming from the Elias Lindholm trade with Vancouver.
Announced on Sunday, the team has formally agreed on a two-year entry-level contract with defenseman Joni Jurmo, valuing $850,000 per year. At 21 years old, Jurmo was initially selected in the third round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Vancouver Canucks. The Flames are looking to support his transition to the United States in the coming months as they aim to elevate his career to new heights.
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We have signed defenceman Joni Jurmo to a two-year entry-level deal!#Flames | @original16beer pic.twitter.com/AUEStLNp2h
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) March 24, 2024
The Finnish defenseman has recorded only one goal and five points in 46 games of the SM-Liiga this season. While his stats may not be as noteworthy as Brzustewicz’s, the team appreciates his defensive skills, physical presence, and sees potential for a future in the NHL. Standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing 207 pounds, he aligns with the physical attributes favored by the Flames. He now becomes part of a growing pool of talent on the team’s defense roster.
Joni Jurmo shows serious skill in this drill. The skating is a work of art, with fantastic footwork early to maintain speed and create separation. The loaded wrist shot is *heavy*. A true standout at Dev Camp today. #Canucks @ilveshockey pic.twitter.com/0a2OPQ2CFT
— Adam Tate (@ADTate39) July 4, 2023
His position within the talented group of prospects, which includes Miromanov, Grushnikov, Brzustewicz, Poirier, and a potential 2024 NHL Draft pick, remains uncertain. However, he possesses the necessary skating, size, and hockey IQ to potentially secure a spot on the Flames’ third defensive pairing in the NHL. Jurmo’s most successful season in Finland was in 2022-23, where he achieved career highs in games played (52), goals (5), assists (8), and points (13). Although he may not generate as much excitement as the other prospects on the team, it would be unexpected if he doesn’t eventually earn a spot on the roster.
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