Modo Hockey fell to Troja-Ljungby in a shootout during Wednesday's Hockeyallsvenskan action, highlighting ongoing struggles with team energy and motivation. Jesper Olofsson scored twice for Modo, but the team appeared listless even in celebration. Panel experts discuss whether the preseason SHL favorites can turn their season around.
In Wednesday's Hockeyallsvenskan matchup, Modo suffered a shootout loss away to Troja-Ljungby, a result that underscores their current challenges. Despite Jesper Olofsson netting two goals, Modo's players showed little enthusiasm, with the forward looking 'as if someone had died' after scoring, according to reporter Andreas Hanson. 'Hockey is meant to be fun,' Hanson wrote. 'Even when you score against a newcomer, you have to allow yourself to celebrate a goal.' The lack of energy in the bench and overall will to compete has raised questions about the team's mindset ahead of their Friday away game against Vimmerby.
Troja-Ljungby, fresh off firing coach Jens Gustafsson, responded positively to the change. Gustafsson earned praise for his farewell message on social media, prioritizing club unity over personal grievances. 'All honor to Jens,' Hanson noted, highlighting his focus on the team's fight for survival.
Broader analysis from Hockeynews panelists points to Modo's potential recovery. With 18 new players, integration takes time, said Mattias Ek. Tyler Kelleher has delivered five game-winning goals, while Milton Gästrin has impressed with mature play. Mattias Persson emphasized strengthening the defense and leadership from veterans like Olofsson, David Rundblad, and Victor Berglund. Offensively, Modo has managed just 18 goals in their last 10 games with an 11% power-play success rate, per Andreas Hanson. Impressive performers include goaltender Adam Werner and the fourth line of Oscar Pettersson, Jacob Bjerselius, and Sebastian Ohlsson.
On sportchef Henrik Gradin's future, with his contract expiring, panelists advocate extension. 'It's close to being resolved,' Persson reported, suggesting a three-year deal to build for SHL promotion.