Kasper Kotkansalo

Kasper Kotkansalo (born 16 November 1998) is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman for Luleå HF of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). Kotkansalo played college hockey at Boston University. He was drafted 71st overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2017 NHL entry draft.

Playing career On 13 October 2016, Kotkansalo committed to play college ice hockey for Boston University during the 2017–18 season. During the 2016–17 season, Kotkansalo recorded one goal and 11 assists in 47 games for the Sioux Falls Stampede of the United States Hockey League (USHL). After the 2019–20 season was abruptly cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kotkansalo returned to his native Finland to be with his family. He finished his career with two goals and 23 assists in 112 games for the Terriers.

On 2 August 2020, Kotkansalo announced he would not return to Boston University for his senior season, citing uncertainties with the COVID-19 pandemic, and would stay in his native Finland to play hockey. On 3 August 2020, Kotkansalo signed a one-year contract with Ässät of the Finnish Liiga. He made his professional debut for Ässät on 2 October 2020. He scored his first career goal on 28 November 2020.

After a lone season with Kiekko-Espoo, Kotkansalo left the Liiga following five years to sign a one-year contract with reigning Swedish champions, Luleå HF of the SHL, on 20 May 2025.

Career statistics International Year Team Event Result GP G A Pts PIM 2015 Finland IH18 4th 5 0 0 0 4 2016 Finland U18 6 0 4 4 0 2018 Finland WJC 6th 5 0 0 0 0 Junior totals 16 0 4 4 4