“It’s never a bad thing to be together and spend time together,” Sebastian Aho commented about the Carolina Hurricanes’ arrival in Helsinki, Finland, for the NHL Global Series.
The team, which is enjoying a period of great success after accumulating multiple victories at the start of the season, seeks to maintain its winning streak while the Finnish players act as hosts in their home country.
The visit to Finland coincides with the return to training of captain Jordan Staal, who practiced with the team this Monday in Helsinki for the first time since his absence. During Staal’s time out of the lineup, Aho took on the most demanding responsibilities, facing the main offensive lines of opposing teams while still contributing to the attack.
Coach Rod Brind’Amour highlighted the growth of his star center under the added pressure. “It’s hard to imagine him being any better this year, but I think he’s improved,” the coach said. “With that added responsibility, knowing Jordan has been out and that he has to carry the heavy load, he’s stepped up.”
For his part, Staal acknowledged his teammate’s contribution: “I’ve always been impressed by Sebastian Aho. He’s been phenomenal since he arrived, and I had no doubt that if my absence left any gaps, they would hardly be noticed.”
Beyond the sporting aspect, the trip has allowed the team members to connect with the local culture. Jesperi Kotkaniemi expressed the group’s enthusiasm for spending time with the families and friends of the Finnish players. Aho has also taken on the role of culinary guide, organizing team dinners and recommending typical dishes such as salmon soup and reindeer meat preparations.
Jordan Martinook, who documents these experiences in his series “Meals with Marty,” was excited about the country’s culinary offerings. “I’ve heard so much about salmon soup and I’m really looking forward to trying it,” he concluded. “I’ve seen reindeer jerky and reindeer dishes, so I’m going to try that and a lot of Finnish food.”
