Finland forced to make Olympic roster change in goal following injury news today

This just in, team Finland in conjunction with the Buffalo Sabres have announced that goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukonen is out with a lower body injury and will not play for the country in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics.

Boston Bruin goaltender Joonas Korpisalo has replaced Luukonen, who joins presumptive starter Juuse Saros and presumptive backup Kevin Lankinen.

It remains to be seen how this affects Finland's lineup, but it should be noted that Luukonen was not expected to see much action. The addition of Korpisalo doesn't really change much for the Finns who will likely be riding Saros as much as possible, with probably a brief appearance or two from Lankinen if needed.

From the Sabres' press release announcement:

Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen will no longer play in the upcoming Winter Olympic Games due to a lower-body injury.

Team Finland announced Tuesday that Boston goaltender Joonas Korpisalo has replaced Luukkonen on its roster for the tournament, which begins Feb. 11.

Luukkonen sustained his injury during the first period of the Sabres’ win in Toronto on Jan. 27. Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said Monday that the goaltender was “progressing” in his recovery, but he has not been on the ice with the team since the injury occurred.

Milano Cortina 2026 marks the NHL’s first Olympic involvement since 2014. Luukkonen was slated to be one of three participating Sabres, along with Rasmus Dahlin (Sweden) and Tage Thompson (United States).