Wednesday night in Norway sets the stage for a fascinating Round of 16 match-up as Storhamar Hamar welcome Lukko Rauma. The two sides arrive from contrasting Regular Season campaigns - Lukko building momentum through a strong Finnish-style structure, while Storhamar fought through an up-and-down journey that ultimately proved enough to advance.

Storhamar closed their six-game Regular Season with a 3–3 record, showing flashes of quality against some of Europe’s toughest teams. After a slow start that included defeats to Eisbären Berlin and KalPa Kuopio, the Norwegian side rebounded impressively with wins over Sparta Prague, Brynäs IF and, most recently, Pinguins Bremerhaven. That run of resilience has given them confidence heading into the knockout phase, especially with home advantage at the CC Amfi, where the passionate home support often inspires the team to push harder in key moments.

Offensively, Andreas Martinsen and Olle Liss have been steady playmakers, each collecting four assists during the Regular Season. On the blue line, Sander Dilling Hurrød and Amil Krupic bring mobility and an attacking spark, while Team of the Regular Season goaltender Markus Røhnebaek Stensrud has been a difference-maker in goal, boasting a 93.8% save percentage and keeping Storhamar in key games throughout the Regular Season.

Their visitors, Lukko Rauma, have been one of the most consistent Finnish teams in the competition, finishing the Regular Season with a 4-2 record. Their disciplined two-way game has delivered both balance and bite, with 21 goals scored and just 14 conceded. Eric Gélinas has been a standout from the back end, leading the team with eight points, while Alex Beaucage (5 points) and Antoine Morand have spearheaded a forward group known for its relentless puck pressure. Between the pipes, Antti Raanta has provided veteran calm, boasting a 95% save rate and a 1.00 GAA.

With both teams leaning on strong goaltending and structured defence, this first game promises a tight, tactical battle. Lukko’s efficiency meets Storhamar’s intensity - and in front of a passionate home crowd, the Norwegian side will aim to make life uncomfortable for their Finnish visitors before the return game in Rauma.