The Wendy’s Peterborough Phantoms are thrilled to confirm the return of assist King, Finnish forward Janne Laakkonen, for the 2026/27 season!
The well-travelled 44-year-old began his career in his native Finland and went on to play in some of Europe’s top leagues. The former Finland U20 International has played in Sweden, Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, France, Austria, Norway and Hungary, in addition to Scotland and England.
He first arrived in England ahead of the 2019/20 season, where he signed for the Coventry Blaze. A certain Luke Ferrara was on the Blaze roster at that time and went on to lead the Elite League in scoring, with a high volume of his goals being assisted by Laakkonen.
Janne played in Coventry again during the EIHL Series during COVID and then iced a further full season at the Skydome in 2021/22.
He signed for the Phantoms in 2024 and has remained with the club ever since. He quickly became a fan favourite for his eye for a pass - once again regularly finding the tape of Ferrara, much to the Phantoms fans’ delight!
Laakkonen has led the NIHL National for assists in both seasons he’s spent with the Phantoms - ending last season on 93, to go with the 15 goals he picked up for himself.
And now, another Phantom with over 100 points last term returns to the line up for 2026/27!
“Very happy to be back for my third year with Phantoms! I have enjoyed the past two years a lot, on and off ice, so it was an easy decision to keep my career going in Peterborough. I expect us to be even stronger next season and to seriously fight for the top positions. I'm already looking forward to getting on the ice in front of our fans and having fun together again. Have a great summer everybody and see you in September!” Janne said.
“Bringing these guys [Janne & Dillon] back is great for us and reinforces that common theme we wanted to keep from last season. Janne doesn’t need me or anyone else explaining what he brings or does on the ice. Dillon was one of the first names on my list when re-signing guys. He definitely didn’t get the plaudits he deserved last year and is as solid a 2-way player you’re going to get.” Head Coach, Ashley Tait, said.
Welcome back, Janne!