Jesperi Kotkaniemi, the Montreal Canadiens' third overall pick in 2018, had a stunning start to the season, amassing 13 points in the first 14 games. This performance initially caused a stir in the media, with many suggesting that the Canadiens had made a significant error in letting the 23-year-old Finn go.
However, Kotkaniemi's offensive production dramatically declined in the following 12 games, during which he only managed to score two points.
This drop in performance is in stark contrast to his point-per-game pace at the season's start. The Carolina Hurricanes, Kotkaniemi's current team, are also not performing as expected this season, despite a record of 14-11-1 that keeps them in the playoff picture.
Kotkaniemi's significant slump, particularly as the team's second-line center, certainly hasn't helped the Hurricanes' situation.
It remains to be seen whether Kotkaniemi can turn things around and contribute more significantly to the success of his team in the coming weeks. As of now, he has tallied eight goals and 15 points in 26 games.
