Modo Hockey clinched a spot in the SHL semifinals by shutting out AIK 4-0 in game six of their quarterfinal series. The victory came after Modo held a 3-2 series lead, with standout performances from Tyler Kelleher and Jakob Hellsten. AIK struggled to match Modo's intensity despite solid goaltending from Jonas Gunnarsson.
In a decisive game six of the SHL quarterfinals, Modo Hockey eliminated AIK with a commanding 4-0 win, advancing to face an opponent yet to be determined in the semifinals. The series had been tightly contested over six games, with Modo entering the match holding a 3-2 lead and ultimately making quick work of their opponents through rapid transitions and clinical finishing. Viktor Persson opened the scoring with a tip-in assisted by Jacob Bengtsson early in the first period, capitalizing on an AIK power play that fizzled out. Tyler Kelleher then delivered a precise pass through AIK's defense to set up Jesper Olofsson for the 2-0 goal, showcasing the clutch play Modo recruited him for. Jakob Hellsten was stellar in net for Modo, particularly during a heavy AIK push in the second period and a late power play, where Modo's defenders blocked shots effectively. Milton Gästrin added a third goal late in the second, and Kyle Topping sealed the shutout with a breakaway tally off an AIK turnover, prompting many fans to leave early. Jonas Gunnarsson made key stops for AIK, but the team appeared passive and lacked edge, with several key players like Daniel Muzito-Bagenda and Oscar Nord underperforming. Modo coach Fredrik Andersson and assistant Thomas Rhodin found effective line combinations late in the series, bolstered by the returns of Kelleher and Gerry Fitzgerald to form. AIK, despite a strong roster on paper, now heads back to the drawing board under new coach Johan Andersson after a demanding season. Modo enters the semifinals as underdogs but keeps SHL promotion hopes alive, as reported by HockeyNews.
