Hugo Gabrielson, a 23-year-old defenseman and Nybro Vikings' top-scoring blueliner, has activated a clause in his contract to leave the club after two seasons. The announcement came on Friday, ahead of next season. Nybro Vikings also introduced new goaltender Hugo Ollas as a replacement signing.
Nybro Vikings confirmed on Friday that 23-year-old defenseman Hugo Gabrielson is departing the club after two seasons in the blue-and-white jersey. Gabrielson joined from Västervik before the 2024 season and has been the team's leading point-producing defenseman since then. He activated a contract clause to facilitate his exit, with previous media reports linking him to Finland next season amid interest from stronger Hockeyallsvenskan clubs as well. Gabrielson expressed gratitude for his time with the team. “I want to really thank Nybro Vikings for letting me be part of the club these past two years. The feeling has been like a big family all the way from the office down to players, coaches, equipment staff, and people you meet in town! That family atmosphere in the organization defines Nybro for me and something I’ll carry with me for a long time,” he said. Sportchef Mikael Aaro praised Gabrielson’s contributions. “Hugo has taken big steps with us and been very important during his two seasons in the club. I want to thank Hugo for everything he’s done for Nybro Vikings, wish him the best of luck. There are no hard feelings at all; I’m happy for him and he’s truly earned moving on in his career. It’s also good validation for us as a club that we have a solid operation,” Aaro stated. In related news, Nybro announced the signing of 24-year-old goaltender Hugo Ollas from the New York Rangers organization the day before. Ollas, a Linköping native with prior SHL experience, played last season in the AHL with Hartford Wolf Pack and ECHL. He will pair with Pontus Eltonius in net next season.