Rasmus Kumpulainen invited to Finland’s WJHC selection camp
Oshawa, ON – The Finnish Ice Hockey Association announced today Oshawa Generals forward Rasmus Kumpulainen has been invited to participate in Team Finland’s World Junior Hockey Championship (WJHC) selection camp.
Kumpulainen, the Lahti, Fin., native is a quarter way through his first season with the Generals. Before joining the Generals via the 13th overall selection at the 2023 CHL Import Draft, Kumpulainen had his NHL dreams come true.
On June 29th, Kumpulainen heard his named called at the 2023 NHL Entry Draft in Nashville, Tenn. The Minnesota Wild selected the 6.02 centre with the 53rd pick in the 2nd round.
Internationally, Kumpulainen has represented Finland on three other occasions. In 2021-2022 he made 13 appearances for his country at the U17 level. At the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Kumpulainen appeared in five games, and scored five points by way of two goals and three assists. Finally, Kumpulainen has made six appearances with the Finnish U20 team, adding four assists to his international resume. All in all, Kumpulainen has made 40 appearances dawning his Finnish flag, scoring 10 goals and 15 assists.
“Ras being selected to play for Finland is an absolute credit to him as a player and the work the coaches have put into his season so far,” said team General Manager Roger Hunt. “I think him playing in North America will certainly enhance his opportunities with the Minnesota Wild and we wish him all the best with this opportunity but can’t wait to see him in the second half of the season for the Gens.”
Should Kumpulainen make the final tournament roster, Team Finland opens their tournament against the defending champions, Team Canada, on Boxing Day.
