Instead, the 40-year-old has been given part ownership of the team. Valtteri Filppula, who began his career with Jokerit Helsinki as a junior and played in Finland's top division before joining the Detroit Red Wings in 2005, expressed his deep connection to the club.
This move helps Jokerit Helsinki remain within the salary cap and adds significant value to the club. Valtteri Filppula's decision to forgo a salary has been hailed as a noble gesture, earning praise in Finland. Valtteri Filppula remains the last active player from Detroit's 2007-08 Stanley Cup-winning team, strengthening his Finnish and international hockey legacy by continuing his career.