Longtime NHLer Valtteri Filppula makes a comeback

Longtime NHL forward Valtteri Filppula is making a comeback of sorts, returning to his home to join legendary Finnish club Jokerit Helsinki.

Filppula has reportedly joined the team on a one year contract, with the possibility of join the team's executive/management staff in the future.

From Finnish publication Ilta-Sanomat (Translated from Finnish):

According to the editorial information, Valtteri Filppula has signed a contract with the Helsinki club and will be starring for the Jokers in Mestis this season.

It is certain that Filppula will play for the Jokers at least next season. It has also been tentatively agreed that Filppula will have another role in the club after his playing career. According to the information, the role of co-owner in Jokers is being planned for Filppula.

Jokerit will hold a press conference on Monday, August 19. at 11:51 a.m. The time is not a coincidence. The minute reading refers to the game number 51 used by Filppula.

Filppula had played the last three seasons in the Swiss A-League, winning the league championship in 2022-23. He, of course, had a long NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings, Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers and New York Islanders. He managed 197 goals and 530 points in 1,056 career NHL games.