Born: 2000-03-22
Team: Kiekko-Pojat (Mestis)
Position: Left Wing
Shoots: Left
Height / Weight: 6-2 / 190
REPORT: HERMES @ KIEKKO-POJAT (MESTIS), FEBRUARY 13, 2021
Salonen played on Kiekko-Pojat first line and was noticeable offensively. He scored the game-winning goal in the third period. He showed patience and made a quick forehand-backhand move in tight. He has some offensive tools and finesse to his game. On one occasion, he received the puck in the neutral zone, protected the puck well with a defender on his back and took a hard wrist shot that missed the net. He has a heavy shot and recorded five shot attempts, second most on his team. His wrist shot is a weapon due its power and accuracy. He is not a particularly fast player, but he didn’t have issues to keep up with the speed of the game. He was tough to defend in the offensive zone and carved out space for his teammates.
REPORT: PELICANS @ HIFK (LIIGA), DECEMBER 26, 2019
Salonen played 14 minutes on the second line as Pelicans beat HIFK 3-2 in overtime. The winger wasn’t around the puck a whole lot in the first period, however, he made a good play to assist the 1-1 goal in the second period. He used his strength to protect the puck in the corner and made a good pass to the high shot for the primary assist. Salonen knew how to use his size to his advantage. He played through contact, went into battles with authority and showed situational toughness. He was smart with the puck and delivered passes that were easy for his teammates to receive. He has improved his puck control and first touch and displayed swift hands. Salonen is a decent skater with pretty good mobility. His first few strides could be quicker, but his speed was fine and he got in on the forecheck. High work rate throughout the game.