The Winnipeg Jets are tapping into their goaltending depth following the taxing 4 Nations Face-Off tournament play.
Kahkonen, 28, has appeared in a single NHL game this season for the Colorado Avalanche. The six-year NHL veteran has a 3.34 goals-against average and .885 save percentage in 20 AHL games with the Moose.
The Helsinki native has an identical 3.34 goals-against average over 140 career NHL appearances, split between the Avalanche, New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks, and Minnesota Wild.
Kahkonen initially signed a one-year, $1 million contract with Winnipeg at the outset of the season, but lost the backup position to Eric Comrie during the pre-season and was waived. He was claimed by Colorado, eventually waived again when Valeri Nichushkin returned and subsequently reclaimed by the Jets.
Given the roster addition, it stands to reason that Connor Hellebuyck may be unavailable for Winnipeg’s game against the St. Louis Blues on Saturday, following an intensive run to the 4 Nations Face-Off final.
