Hirvonen, 20, posted 26 points (9G, 17A) in 46 games with HIFK of the Finnish Elite League (Liiga) during the 2021-22 season while also skating in five playoff games where he recorded six points (3G, 3A). The Espoo, Finland product has recorded 63 points (20G, 43A) in 152 career Liiga games split between HIFK and Ässät.
Internationally, Hirvonen has represented Finland several times during his career. Hirvonen served as Finland's captain at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship where he recorded one assist in two games before the tournament was postponed. Hirvonen captured a bronze medal with Finland at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship where he recorded six points (2G, 4A) in seven games during the tournament.
Hirvonen was selected by Toronto in the second round (59th overall) of the 2020 NHL Draft.
Niemelä, 20, posted 32 points (10G, 22A) in 48 games with Kärpät of the Finnish Elite League (Liiga) during the 2021-22 season while also skating in six playoff games where he recorded one assist. Niemelä led Kärpät defencemen in goals and points this season. The Oulu, Finland product has recorded 43 points (11G, 32A) through 106 career Liiga games with Kärpät and added three assists in 10 playoff games.
Internationally, Niemelä has represented Finland on several occasions. Niemelä served as Finland's assistant captain at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship where he recorded one goal in two games before the tournament was postponed. Niemelä won a bronze medal with Finland at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship where he led all defencemen in goals (2), assists (6) and points (8) during the tournament.
Niemelä was selected by Toronto in the third round (64th overall) of the 2020 NHL Draft.
