Jokerit sidelines star players Maxime Fortier and Matthew Caito

Jokerit has made significant roster changes following a poor start to the season, which included five consecutive losses and only one point from their first five matches. Coach Tomek Valtonen has removed star players Maxime Fortier and defenseman Matthew Caito from the lineup for the upcoming match against Pelicans.

Fortier, a Canadian forward who previously played for Björklöven and SaiPa, has addressed rumors regarding a potential departure from the club. Despite being sidelined, Fortier stated that he is under a two-year contract and intends to stay, noting that he must simply perform better to earn his place back in the squad.

To fill the gaps in the lineup, Jokerit will utilize Oliver Larsen in the top defensive pairing and promote forwards Miro Nalli and Jesse Liuksiala, along with defenseman Saku Forsblom. The team is currently at the bottom of the standings as they seek their first victory of the season.