Finland announced Kevin Lankinen will start in goal against Sweden on Saturday, head coach Antti Pennanen told NHL.com.
The change comes after Juuse Saros allowed six goals in Thursday’s 6-1 loss to the United States.
“We have three good goalies. It’s a good situation for us,” Pennanen said. “‘Jus,’ I think he was really good the first 40 minutes, but 6-1, so we have to do something. Kevin has played good games lately, so that was behind that decision.”
Lankinen brings a 19-8-7 record with the Vancouver Canucks this season. He’s posted a .905 save percentage, 2.53 goals-against average, and four shutouts.
“That’s what every little kid is dreaming about, especially the tournaments like this, not just to play against the best (but also) representing your own country,” Lankinen said. “That’s what we work so hard for.”
Finland currently sits in last place in the 4 Nations Face-Off standings after one game. Sweden earned a point in their opening overtime loss to Canada.
The game starts at 1 p.m. ET in Montreal.
