Mestis 2025–26: Title Contenders & Season Preview
The new Mestis season promises a compelling race for promotion to Liiga, with former champions, playoff regulars, and hungry underdogs all staking their claim. After Jokerit’s triumphant return culminated in a dominant championship run last spring, the rest of the field is reloaded and aiming for the top. Which clubs will rise, and who will write the next chapter in Finnish hockey's most unpredictable league?
Top Teams by 2024–25 Finish & Core Strengths
| Rank | Team | 2024–25 Record | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jokerit | 49 GP, 113 pts, +106 GD | Deep roster, elite offense |
| 2 | IPK | 49 GP, 83 pts, +23 GD | Balanced scoring, playoff-tested |
| 3 | Ketterä | 49 GP, 81 pts, +20 GD | Disciplined play, top special teams |
| 4 | JoKP | 49 GP, 72 pts, -17 GD | Physicality, coaching continuity |
| 5 | Hermes | 49 GP, 72 pts, -29 GD | Goaltending, grit |
| 6 | Kiekko-Vantaa | 49 GP, 70 pts, +4 GD | Fast pace, surprise factor |
Contender Snapshots
Jokerit: Heavy favorites after steamrolling the competition last year: 32 wins and a +106 goal differential signal unmatched firepower but repeating is never easy in Mestis. The addition of young talent and a retooled top line will keep them in pole position.
IPK (Iisalmen Peli-Karhut): Last season’s finalists are Mestis regulars with playoff experience and balanced lines. Increased depth and defensive upgrades mark them as prime challengers.
Ketterä: Known for discipline, strong penalty kill, and structured systems, Ketterä has the tactical edge to frustrate high-octane teams.
JoKP: While negative goal differential highlights some defensive concerns, JoKP’s physical style and intensity bring plenty of upset potential when it matters.
Hermes: Resilient and gritty, Hermes can ride a hot goalie deep into the playoffs, but must tighten up team defense and generate more 5-on-5 offense.
Kiekko-Vantaa: Always competitive, their dynamic play makes them a dangerous lower seed, especially if the top line finds early chemistry.
Storylines to Watch
- Can Jokerit repeat? Big budget and deep talent make them the clear favorite, but every team will bring their best to spoil a repeat bid.
- Who emerges as the dark horse? Ketterä and JoKP have the ingredients to upset the projected order, especially with playoff-style grind.
- Playoff parity: The gap between the top six is slim; hot streaks and key injuries could throw the postseason wide open.
- Promoted Pyry debut: How will Pyry handle the Mestis jump after dominating Suomi-Sarja? A sleeper for mid-table stability.
- Financial and roster stability: Several clubs have faced off-ice turmoil or bankruptcy concerns; off-season changes may impact early results.
Outlook
Jokerit and IPK start as the headline favorites, but history shows Mestis rarely follows a script. Grit, form, and momentum often trump on-paper strength. Expect a season of close races, playoff surprises, and the kind of high-intensity hockey that defines Finnish leagues.