Atro Leppänen

August 2025 – Leppanen, 26 years old, has had one of the most interesting routes to North America. After spending his entire career in Finland, much in the second division of Finnish hockey, Leppanen made the jump to the LIIGA, where he quickly broke out and proved himself to be one of the most valuable pieces for his team. As a defenseman, Leppanen scored 21 goals and 63 points in 60 LIIGA games, which earned him a contract with the Edmonton Oilers. He is projected to play in the AHL next year but could surprise fans as if his game translates to smaller North American ice, then he could establish himself on the Oilers’ blue line soon enough. He is an under-the-radar player who Oilers fans should keep an eye on. James Connelly

April 2025 – The Edmonton Oilers signed Leppänen a one-year, entry-level contract for the 2025-26 season. Mark Henry