Vili Saarijarvi

Junior

During the 2014–15 season, Saarijarvi recorded six goals and 17 assists in 57 games for the Green Bay Gamblers, leading the Gamblers' defenceman in scoring, and finishing tied for 20th in scoring among all USHL defenceman. His first career USHL goal was a game-winning overtime goal on October 4, 2014, against the Chicago Steel. Following an outstanding season, Saarijarvi was named to the All-Rookie Second Team. He was featured in the 2015 USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.

On June 30, 2015, Saarijarvi was drafted 9th overall by the Flint Firebirds in the CHL Import Draft. On August 12, 2015, the Flint Firebirds signed Saarijarvi to an Ontario Hockey League (OHL) contract for the 2015–16 season. Saarijarvi played his first OHL game with the Firebirds on September 24, 2015, where he recorded his first career OHL point, an assist, in a game against the Saginaw Spirit. Saarijarvi scored his first career OHL goal against Liam Herbst of the Ottawa 67's. Saarijarvi was named the OHL Defenseman of the Month for the month of October 2015. During his first full month in the OHL, he recorded two goals, and nine assists in 11 games, including three multi-point games. He is currently tied for the lead in scoring among OHL defensemen with 16 points in 14 games.

Professional

On July 3, 2015, the Detroit Red Wings signed Saarijarvi to a three-year, entry-level contract.

International play

Saarijarvi represented Finland at the 2015 IIHF World U18 Championships, where he led all defenceman in scoring, recording three goals and six assists in seven games, and won a silver medal. He was selected as the tournament's best defenceman and was named to the 2015 IIHF World U18 Championship All-Star Team.