The Dallas Stars and Their Finnish Connection: A Legacy of Talent and Opportunity
When Jere Lehtinen, a legendary figure in Dallas Stars history, visited Dallas in March, he took the opportunity to advocate for a player who had flown under the NHL radar: Arttu Hyry. As the general manager for the Finnish national team, Lehtinen had been closely monitoring Hyry’s progress in Finland’s top professional league over the past four seasons. His endorsement was not just a nod to Hyry’s talent but also a reflection of the Stars’ ongoing commitment to scouting and developing Finnish players.
A New Addition to the Roster
Lehtinen’s influence was felt just a month later when the Stars signed Hyry to a two-year entry-level contract. This move marked a significant step in the Stars’ strategy of tapping into Finnish talent, a strategy that has proven fruitful over the years. By the fall, Hyry had already made a name for himself as one of the most intriguing prospects in the organization, showcasing his skills at the Traverse City showcase and during training camp, where he vied for the coveted 13th forward spot on the roster.
“We share information,” Lehtinen explained, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scouting and player development. “I liked [Hyry] last season, and of course, that’s why we picked him for the World Championship team. I hope he gets the chance, and I believe he’ll get the chance at some point.”
Building a Finnish Pipeline
Hyry’s signing was just the beginning. The Stars continued to bolster their Finnish presence during the 2024 NHL draft, selecting right winger Emil Hemming in the first round and defenseman Nilopekka Muhonen in the fifth round. This commitment to scouting and developing Finnish players has established the Stars as a prime destination for talent from Finland, a trend that has been growing for over three decades.
The Stars have hosted 24 Finnish players in their history, more than any other NHL franchise. Currently, they have three active Finnish players—Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, and Esa Lindell—along with several more in their farm system. This robust pipeline has not only enriched the team’s roster but has also contributed to the Stars’ success on the ice.
The Legacy of Jere Lehtinen
Lehtinen’s impact on the Stars extends beyond his playing days. His legacy as a two-way forward who won the Selke Trophy three times and played a pivotal role in the Stars’ 1999 Stanley Cup victory continues to resonate within the organization. He has remained involved in the team’s scouting efforts, helping to identify and nurture Finnish talent.
Kari Takko, another key figure in the Stars’ Finnish scouting efforts, has been instrumental in this process. A former Minnesota North Stars goalie, Takko has served as the director of European scouting since 2009. His extensive knowledge of Finnish hockey has allowed the Stars to tap into a rich vein of talent, ensuring that the franchise remains competitive in the NHL.
The Finnish Development System
The success of Finnish players in the NHL can be attributed to a robust development system that has produced a wealth of talent. Joe McDonnell, the Stars’ director of amateur scouting, noted, “Finland, in general, has done a tremendous job with the size of the country that they have just developed as many hockey players as they have, not only for Dallas but throughout the National Hockey League.”
The Finnish approach to hockey emphasizes hard work, humility, and reliability—qualities that have become synonymous with Finnish players in the NHL. This cultural foundation has made the transition to North American hockey smoother for players like Heiskanen, Hintz, and Lindell, who have become cornerstones of the Stars’ current success.
The Shift in Perception
The narrative surrounding Finnish players has evolved significantly over the years. Takko recalls a time when Finnish players were viewed with skepticism, often seen as outsiders in the NHL. However, the landscape has changed dramatically, with Finnish players now commanding respect and admiration across the league.
With 260 Finnish-born players having debuted in the NHL and 38 currently active, Finland’s contribution to the league is undeniable. The Stars have recognized this shift and have made a concerted effort to invest in scouting and developing talent from Finland, further solidifying their reputation as a destination for Finnish players.
A Seamless Transition
The Stars’ Finnish pipeline has created a self-fulfilling prophecy. New draftees like Emil Hemming are already familiar with the organization and its culture, thanks to the presence of established Finnish players. Hemming, the No. 29 overall pick in the 2024 draft, expressed excitement about joining a team with a strong Finnish presence, stating, “It got a lot easier when you have Finnish friends over here, so they can help you out a lot.”
This seamless transition is a testament to the Stars’ commitment to fostering a supportive environment for Finnish players. The organization has cultivated a culture where newcomers can thrive, making Dallas an attractive destination for Finnish talent.
The Future of Finnish Hockey in Dallas
As the Stars continue to build their roster with Finnish players, the organization remains focused on maintaining and expanding this successful pipeline. The combination of luck, skill, and a deep understanding of the Finnish hockey landscape has positioned the Stars as a leader in scouting and developing talent from Finland.
With a legacy built on the contributions of players like Lehtinen and Takko, the Dallas Stars are not just a team; they are a bridge between two hockey cultures, fostering talent that will shape the future of the franchise and the NHL as a whole. The Stars’ commitment to their Finnish roots is not just a strategy; it’s a testament to the enduring power of hockey as a unifying force across borders.