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FTB: first check in on our Finnish prospects at the World Juniors

Niemela started the game on the third pair with Eemil Viro, but was put on the first power play unit and was given spot shifts higher up the lineup with fellow Leaf Mikko Kokkonen and Ville Heinola. By the end of the game when Finland was trying to tie a 3-2 game, he was moved up permanently to the top pair to get maximum offense. Finland is basically using him as a Travis Dermott.

In terms of highlights, Niemela set up the first goal of the game on the power play.

He then showed off some great feet on his second 5v5 shift of the game.