Urho Vaakanainen

Urho Vaakanainen, born on January 1, 1999, in Joensuu, Finland, is a professional ice hockey defenseman. Standing at 74 inches and weighing 202 pounds, Vaakanainen is known for his defensive prowess in the NHL. Drafted 18th overall in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft, his journey into professional hockey began with his rookie year in 2018. Vaakanainen's career highlights include his impressive defensive skills, demonstrated by his consistent performance in blocking shots and takeaways. During the 2025 season, he played 19 games, contributing three points through assists and showcasing a defensive style that involves significant time on ice, averaging 13:40 minutes per game. His role is primarily focused on even-strength play, with limited time spent on powerplay or shorthanded situations. Throughout his career, Vaakanainen has maintained a strong presence on the ice, with a total of 13 blocked shots and 14 blocked attempts in the 2025 season, reflecting his commitment to defense. Despite not having recorded any goals, his assists and overall contributions to the team's defensive efforts are noteworthy. Vaakanainen's career stats reveal a player dedicated to his role on the ice, emphasizing his ability to support his team through effective defensive strategies. With a left-handed shot and wearing jersey number 18, Urho Vaakanainen continues to be a key player in the NHL, recognized for his consistent performance and defensive capabilities.