Kari Takko

Kari Takko was born on June 23, 1962, in Uusikaupunki, Finland, and went on to become one of the earlier Finnish goaltenders to establish an NHL career during the league's gradual internationalization of the 1980s. Standing 6'2" and weighing 185 pounds, Takko was selected by the Minnesota North Stars in the fifth round, 13th pick, of the 1984 NHL Draft.

Before arriving in North America, Takko had already built a professional résumé in Finland's SM-liiga, where he played from 1979 to 1985. He also represented Finland internationally, including at the 1984 Winter Olympics.

Takko's NHL career ran from 1986 to 1991, during which he appeared in 142 games, posting 37 wins and 71 losses with a goals-against average of 3.90, a save percentage of .878, and 1 shutout. Following his time in the NHL, he returned to the SM-liiga, playing there until 1997.

After his playing career concluded, Takko moved into hockey operations. He has worked for Porin Ässät as a player coordinator and has served as Director of European Scouting for the Dallas Stars.

InGoal Magazine has not previously published coverage of Takko.