Born: 2001-04-11
Team: Tappara
Position: Right Wing
Shoots: Left
Height / Weight: 5-9 / 157
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 22, 2021
Puhakka has been one of the bright spots on Tappara’s Liiga team at the early stages of the season. He’s looking stronger than last season and he’s able to withstand contact better. The added strength will help him significantly in board and corner battles. His work rate is excellent, he competes at both ends and brings energy to shifts. He moves and skates very well, he is slippery with the puck and tough to defend in the offensive zone. He gets to the right spots. His hands are quick and smooth and the puck doesn’t slow him down. Scored his first goal of the season as he was quick to a loose puck and put the rebound home. He has only averaged 10:39 of ice-time in his first four games this season, but I believe he will break out sooner rather than later.
REPORT: PITSITURNAUS, AUGUST 7, 2020
Puhakka made a very positive impression in his first games with Tappara’s Liiga team. He played with high effort and showed he can play up and down the roster. He got power play time and displayed quality passing skills and smooth hands. He is a fluid skater with a quick stride. His acceleration and first-step quickness are very good. Well-rounded for his age, played smart and processed the game quickly. Active away from the puck. If he keeps playing well for the remainder of the preseason, I think he may start the regular season in the Liiga instead of going back to juniors. His game is trending upwards.