Regina Pats’ Oksanen is adjusting to WHL game
Emil Oksanen moved halfway across the globe to play for the Regina Pats, but his journey is far from complete.
The native of Finland began his WHL career Friday when Regina opened the 2017-18 campaign against the host Brandon Wheat Kings. That contest represented the latest step in his acclimation to the North American game, a process that takes longer for some European players than others.
“I don’t think it’s going to be so big,” Oksanen said earlier this week. “Of course it takes some time to adjust but I’ve been here a while already. I’ve been more comfortable on the ice and I’m looking forward to the season opener.”
When the Pats selected Oksanen in the second round (72nd overall) of the 2017 CHL import draft, they hoped he would adjust quicker than some imports due to his age (19) and extensive international experience. He played in the 2015 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and helped Finland win gold at the 2016 world under-18 championship.
Oksanen turned pro the next year, recording 13 goals and 19 points in 48 games with Espoo United in the Mestis league — Finland’s No. 2 pro loop.
“I think he’s a real good player; he has lots of ability,” said Pats head coach/GM John Paddock, whose team plays its home opener Saturday (7 p.m., Brandt Centre) against the Wheat Kings. “Emil is older. He’s skilled. He has seen more hockey. I think he’s going to be a really good player — probably quicker (than most) because of being older and understanding more.”
Oksanen has a two-year jump on Regina’s other rookie import: Defenceman Egor Zamula. The 17-year-old Russian had one goal and four assists in six pre-season games.
Oksanen hit the ground running, too, displaying a deft playmaker’s touch while recording three assists in three exhibition contests.
Despite an impressive skill set, it may take some time for Oksanen to fully hit his stride in the WHL, especially since the Pats favour an uptempo game contrary to the European style.
“It’s a lot different,” admitted the 6-foot, 182-pound forward. “Back home we use the trap a lot, sit back and wait for the other team. But I like this kind of style more.”
Oksanen is accustomed to playing on the larger European ice surface, which is conducive to more time and space for the puck carrier.
Paddock believes he’ll have to learn to make plays a split-second faster. He’s also a pass-first player who needs to be more assertive in utilizing his shot.
“People are going to be on him quicker,” Paddock said. “He’s used to the boring European game that people talk about that we don’t play — sit back and trap. There’s pressure (on the puck carrier in the WHL). There’s some adjustment but I think he’ll figure it out fine. He passes the puck (well). He shoots the puck (well). That’s exactly what we wanted.”
Oksanen will be thrust into a key role with Regina, playing alongside veteran centre Matt Bradley. Paddock thinks the combination has a lot of potential, depending on how quickly Oksanen adapts.
“It’s the same as last year and all my life,” Oksanen said. “I’m quite old in this league already so I have to (help) lead the team. I’m more prepared. I think it’s going to be good.”