Juuse Saros: the Olympics is a “legendary thing to be a part of”
International hockey, as compared to playing in a league, carries a particular resonance for the Finnish player. Saros reflects, “You’re playing for your country, so that’s a special thing,” he said. “You have a lot of pride in putting that jersey on. It’s special for sure.”
“The whole heritage of Finland and hockey has always been a big thing in our identity as well, I think in Finland,” he said.
The Olympics amplify all of that. Saros speaks about the prospect of Milano Cortina with a sense of anticipation. “The Olympics is a special thing and a legendary thing to be a part of,” he said. “So I think that whole experience and then representing your country and competing against the best is the most exciting part.”
The challenge in Milan comes with another twist that fans will love. Finland and Sweden, long-standing rivals, have been drawn into the same Olympic group. “It’s a legendary rivalry,” Saros said simply. “Always special games. It’s cool to be in the same group.”
As Finland’s likely starter, Saros will serve as the last line of defence for a nation entering the NHL-strengthened Olympic title defence. “You have so many things going into that obviously,” he said of the unique goaltender position. “You’ve got to see the puck always and know where everybody is.”
The clarity in his answer mirrors the way he plays, composed and controlled. Amid the intensity of Olympic pressure, cross-continent travel, and a demanding NHL season, Saros remains measured and grounded in the fundamentals of his craft.
With Finland preparing to defend their Olympic crown, Saros will be central to its hopes. Here in Stockholm, on familiar European ice, the road to Milano Cortina feels that little bit closer.