Jarkko Ruutu is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was known for his physical play, agitating style, and penalty-killing abilities.
Ruutu began his professional career in Finland, playing for HIFK Helsinki in the Finnish Elite League. He was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the third round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut in the 2001-2002 season. He played for the Canucks for three seasons before being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2006.
During his time with the Penguins, Ruutu became known for his agitating style of play and his ability to get under the skin of opposing players. He was also a key penalty killer for the team. In 2008, he helped the Penguins reach the Stanley Cup Finals, where they ultimately lost to the Detroit Red Wings.
After two seasons with the Penguins, Ruutu signed with the Ottawa Senators in 2008. He played for the Senators for three seasons before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks in 2011. He played just 23 games for the Ducks before being traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he finished his NHL career.
In total, Ruutu played in 652 NHL games, scoring 57 goals and 75 assists for 132 points. He also racked up 1,052 penalty minutes, showcasing his physical and agitating style of play. He was known for his ability to get under the skin of opposing players and draw penalties, as well as his strong penalty-killing abilities.
After retiring from professional hockey, Ruutu became a scout for the Vancouver Canucks. He also worked as a television analyst for Finnish hockey broadcasts.
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