SEATTLE, Wash. — July 14, 2024 — Today, the Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) announced that they have signed goaltender Kim Saarinen from HPK to a three-year, entry-level contract ($975,000 AAV). Saarinen was Seattle’s second pick in the third round (88th overall) of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.

During the 2023-24 season, the Finnish player, standing at six-foot-four and weighing 181 pounds, primarily played for HPK’s U20 team. He achieved an impressive record of 14 wins and 5 losses, including two shutouts. With a goals-against average of 2.41 and a save percentage of .917, he ranked second among all SM-sarja U20 goaltenders. These outstanding statistics led to him receiving the U20 SM-sarja Best Goalie award and securing a spot on the U20 First All-Star Team. Additionally, he made appearances in 11 games for HPK’s U18 and Finnish Elite (Liiga) squads, finishing the remainder of the season with a record of 9 wins, 1 loss, and 1 tie.

Saarinen’s career has been exclusively within the HPK system, spanning from the 2020-21 season to the 2023-24 season. He has played for their U16, U18, U20, and Liiga teams. Throughout his time in the HPK system, Saarinen has participated in a total of 89 regular-season games, achieving an impressive record of 48 wins, 22 losses, and 1 tie. Additionally, he has also played eight games in the postseason.

Born in Hämeenlinna, Finland, the talented athlete proudly showcased his skills on the international stage. He had the honor of representing his country in various prestigious tournaments, including the IIHF U18 World Championships and the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in the 2023-24 season. Additionally, he competed in the U17 World Hockey Challenge in 2022-23, where he contributed to his team’s success and secured a well-deserved bronze medal.