Playing Career
Filppula started his pro career in Kiekko-Vantaa, in the Finnish lower leagues, and after two years with JYP, he spent a season with Jokerit, and then returned to JYP with a two-year contract. In 2008, he signed a 2-year contract with TPS. Filppula won the Jari Kurri trophy in 2010.
On June 15, 2010, Filppula signed a two-way contract with the Detroit Red Wings, where his brother Valtteri has played since 2005. The Red Wings assigned Filppula to their AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, during training camp. In his first season in North America, Filppula participated in the AHL All-Star game and finished the season first on the Grand Rapids Griffins in assists and points.
Despite leading the Griffins with 64 points, Filppula was not given an opportunity in the NHL with the Red Wings and on May 19, 2011, he returned to Finland with Jokerit, signing a four-year deal.
Read more about this topic: Ilari Filppula
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