Merilainen, who was selected with the 71st overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, was chosen by Kingston in the CHL Import Draft on June 30.
"We're very pleased that Leevi has made the decision to join the Frontenacs next season," Senators general manager Pierre Dorion said. "The Fronts have long maintained a strong program and our proximity to Kingston will allow for our hockey development staff and goaltending coach to closely monitor his progress."
The 18-year-old played the 2020-21 season with Karpat in Finland's SM-sarja junior U20 league and earned a record of 21-0-3 to lead the league in wins while posting team highs in save percentage (.928) and in goals-against average (1.71). He also registered a league-high six shutout victories.
"We are excited about the commitment from Leevi," Kingston general manager Kory Cooper said. "He's a goaltender who has been on an upward trend over the last couple of seasons in Finland. As an Ottawa Senators prospect, he is thrilled about the opportunity of playing in Kingston and helping the Frontenacs win games."
Kooper was previously the Belleville Senators' goaltending coach for three seasons from 2017-18 until 2019-20.
The Fronts open their 2021-22 season on Oct. 8 when they host Ottawa.
