"We’re looking forward to the games" - Jukurit's Quinton Howden

A player who has seen it all - the NHL, Russia, Europe’s top leagues. Quinton Howden joined Jukurit Mikkeli just at the turning point of their Champions Hockey League season, jumping into the line-up for the first round of Playoffs.

“I have really been enjoying my time here!” started Quinton Howden, “the guys have been awesome, and my time here has been a lot of fun so far. I haven’t played in this league before, so it’s a little bit different, but I am really enjoying it.”

Jukurit are a team that have a huge span of different age groups. The oldest players are close to their 40’s, while the younger guys are just at the very start of their professional ice hockey careers.

The young guys are hungry and eager to learn Jukurit Mikkeli’s Quinton Howden

“I think the team chemistry is really good. The older guys do a great job leading the way and then there are the young and skilled guys who are hungry and eager to learn. It’s a great dynamic for the team,” said the 30-year-old.

When it comes to his own place and role In Jukurit, it is no surprise that others could benefit from his presence.

“Obviously, I am one of the older guys and I have played in a few different leagues, so I feel like I bring some good experience and leadership. I try to help the young guys in the right way and help the team get some good wins.”

Jukurit Mikkeli are through to the Quarter-Finals in their very first CHL season (Photo: Til Bürgy)

Jukurit secured their place in the Quarter-Finals by beating Swiss side Fribourg-Gottéron a few weeks ago. Howden was on the ice for both of the games and has a good idea of what the CHL is about.

“It’s been awesome!” said Howden, “I have only been with the team for one round, but they had a really good Group Stage run and we had a great two games against Fribourg."

"I thought that our team came together very well and did a great job coming out on top. We’re looking forward to the next games."

It’s a great competition and a fun experience Jukurit Mikkeli’s Quinton Howden

Howden has played in various leagues and countries throughout his career. The format and mission of the CHL is something that the experienced hockey player rather enjoys.

“It’s a lot of fun. Sometimes it’s tough when the schedule gets busy and you have some long journeys for CHL games, but those kinds of games are easy to get up for."

"It’s not too often that you get to play against teams and players from different leagues all over Europe. It’s a great competition and a fun experience.”

The First Game of Jukurit's Quarter-Finals series will be played on Finland’s Independence Day, 6 December (Photo: Til Bürgy)

Howden played 97 games in the NHL while Jukurit’s Head Coach Olli Jokinen has put an NHL team jersey on for over 1,230 times in the regular seasons over 17 years. Howden really appreciates the insight that a veteran like Jokinen has to give.

“He’s been awesome to me. He’s got a ton of experience and is very wise on how he sees the game. I think he has done a very good job in how he coaches our team, and we all have a lot of respect for him. I’ve learned a lot from him already.”

“We all have a lot of respect for him and his career. It’s great to be around him as he is taking this next step as a coach and doing a really good job.”

Jukurit will face Swedish side Luleå Hockey in the Quarter-Finals. The First Game will be played on Finland’s Independence Day, 6 December at 19:05 CET, while the Return Game will be played the following Tuesday on 13 December at 18:05 CET.