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Winnipeg Jets reassign Kristian Vesalainen from the Moose to Jokerit

Jets reassign 2017 1st rounder Kristian Vesalainen to the KHL team based in his hometown.

Kristian Vesalainen heads up ice in 3rd uni

Photo Credit: Colby Spence

After the move to send Vesalainen down to the AHL was made by the Jets on Tuesday it was just a matter of time (or logistics) according to GM Kevin Cheveldayoff before he was sent back to Europe to continue his development with his hometown team of Jokerit which had acquired his rights the previous week.  Today the Jets announced that their 2017 1st rounder had been reassigned from Manitoba to Jokerit of the KHL.  Vesalainen will get a chance to return to his hometown to play hockey for this season.  When the KHL season ends he will be eligible to return (similar to what happened with Eeli Tolvanen and the Nashville Predators last season).

First chance for Vesalainen to get into the lineup with Jokerit will be Friday as they welcome Barys Astana to Helskinki for a contest at the now familiar (to Jets fans after the Global Series) Hartwall Arena.

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