Mikko Koskinen seemed to be a possible star goaltender in the NHL started when the New York Islanders, drafted him 31st overall in 2009. However, he only played four games with the team during the 2010-11 season, spending much of the duration of his contract with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, their AHL affiliate. Despite this, he still earned kudos for his saves as the Isles #1.
Mikko Koskinen then spent several years looking for a better chance to build up his goaltending prowess, spending several years in the KHL. After two years with Novosibirsk Sbir and four with St. Petersburg SKA, the then 30-year-old goaltender returned to the NHL to play four seasons with the Edmonton Oilers from 2018 to 2022. Despite an okay save percentage of .903 and 2.98 goals-against-average during his stint, he ended up with much of the ire of Oilers fans and his head coach Dave Tippett. Afterward, he departed the team to play in Switzerland.
Though it has been two years since his last NHL game, the former Edmonton Oiler goaltender has officially retired from the league. The 36- year-old Mikko Koskinen, will pursue a career in the player agency business in Finland, his home country. Per Ilta Sanomat, the former goaltender has already released his shareholding in Kiekko-Espoo in the SM-liiga and was approved by the players' association.
While most professional hockey players likely wish they could play forever, Mikko Koskinen realized he is past his time to shine behind the crease. Thankfully, he already as more than a foot in the door on his next adventure. Hopefully, it will be as rewarding and fruitful as his career on the ice.
POLL | ||
Did you see Mikko Koskinen play for the Edmonton Oilers or New York Islanders in the NHL? | ||
Yes, both | 43 | 20.3 % |
Yes, Edmonton Oilers | 63 | 29.7 % |
Yes, New York Islanders | 21 | 9.9 % |
No, neither | 85 | 40.1 % |
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