Who Is Jesperi Kotkaniemi? Age, Biography and Wiki
Jesperi Kotkaniemi, born on July 6, 2000, is a talented Finnish ice hockey player known for his skillful play and strategic mindset. As of 2025, he is 24 years old and has made a name for himself in the National Hockey League (NHL), showcasing his abilities as a forward for the Carolina Hurricanes. Emerging from a strong finish in junior leagues and professional play in Europe, Kotkaniemi has garnered a reputation as one of Finland’s promising talents.
| Occupation | Hockey Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 6, 2000 |
| Age | 25 Years |
| Birth Place | Pori, Finland |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | Finland |
Popularity
Jesperi Kotkaniemi's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) and weighing around 205 pounds (93 kg), Jesperi possesses the physical attributes necessary for a strong performance on the ice. His athletic build allows him to maneuver effectively while competing against some of the league's toughest players.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Jesperi Kotkaniemi keeps his personal life relatively private. Reports indicate that he is currently dating a fellow Finnish athlete, although the specifics of his girlfriend's identity remain undisclosed. The couple is often seen sharing supportive moments during public events, reflecting a strong bond. Jesperi comes from a supportive family, which has played a significant role in his hockey journey, fostering a love for the sport from a young age.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Jesperi Kotkaniemi's net worth is estimated to be around $8 million, primarily from his contracts in the NHL and endorsements. Following a successful rookie contract with the Montreal Canadiens and then moving to the Carolina Hurricanes, his annual salary has significantly increased, making him one of the more financially secure young athletes in the league.
On 28 August 2021, Kotkaniemi signed a one-year, $6.1 million offer sheet with the Carolina Hurricanes. Seven days later, the Canadiens decided not to match the offer sheet, sending Kotkaniemi to Carolina with Montreal receiving their first and third-round picks in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft as compensation.
Kotkaniemi was the first NHL player to be successfully acquired via offer sheet since Dustin Penner in 2007. The Kotkaniemi affair drew parallels to an offer sheet the Canadiens offered Hurricanes forward Sebastian Aho two years prior.
Kotkaniemi's contract with the Hurricanes included a $20 signing bonus, a reference to the number Aho wears with Carolina, and statements issued by Hurricanes management poked fun at the Canadiens by being verbatim of statements issued by Montreal management after offer sheeting Aho.
Career, Business and Investments
Since joining the NHL, Kotkaniemi has developed a promising career, highlighted by his outstanding performances in playoffs and regular seasons. As part of the Carolina Hurricanes, he has been integral to the team's strategies and achievements. In addition to hockey, Jesperi is exploring business opportunities within sports apparel and fitness brands, capitalizing on his growing popularity. His investments are rumored to include stakeholdings in local Finnish businesses, reflective of his commitment to his roots.
Kotkaniemi was raised in Pori, the son of Mikael and Kati Kotkaniemi. Mikael, a former professional hockey player and current coach, and native of Helsinki, settled in Pori after meeting Kati, a Pori area native, while he was playing for HC Ässät Pori.
Kotkaniemi has one brother, Kasperi, who is sixteen months his senior and plays as a goaltender. Because the two brothers were so close in age, Jesperi would play with players in Kasperi's age group (1999 born).
Mikael took a job as an assistant coach in Ässät's under-20 team in 2006, eventually working his way up to head coach of the men's team, which allowed Jesperi and Kasperi unlimited access to the club's facilities, so they spent most of their time on the ice as children.
Social Network
Jesperi Kotkaniemi is actively engaged on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where he shares insights into his hockey journey, personal life moments, and interactions with fans. With thousands of followers, he uses his platforms to raise awareness about mental health and youth sports initiatives, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community.
Education
Jesperi Kotkaniemi's educational background primarily centers around balancing his demanding hockey career with academic pursuits. Before fully dedicating himself to professional hockey, he attended comprehensive school in Finland, where he excelled both academically and athletically. His education journey reminds aspiring athletes of the importance of balancing personal and professional growth.
