Goaltender Felix Sandström, the 29-year-old Gävle native, has signed a two-year contract extension with HV71 through 2028, the club announced. His heroics in HV71's 4-0 SHL qualification series sweep over Leksand, where he allowed just five goals, secured the team's top-flight survival and completes a revamped goaltending trio in Jönköping.
Felix Sandström joined HV71 in December from Kärpät amid Frederik Dichow's injuries and Lassi Lehtinen's subpar play. He quickly became the starter, anchoring all four qualification games against Leksand with a shutout series performance, conceding only five goals in the 4-0 victory that kept HV71 in the SHL.
Despite interest from clubs like Rögle, Sandström opted to stay, signing the two-year deal through 2028. HV71 interim general manager Johan Hult lauded his impact: 'Felix impressed me greatly when he joined us,' Hult said on the club's website. 'He brings calmness that spreads to the team and will mentor young goalies Olof Glifford and Herman Liv. We are glad Felix completes our exciting goaltending trio.'
The goaltending group also features Glifford and Liv (both signed for next season), Lehtinen (free agent), and Hugo Alnefelt (on loan to HIFK). After returning from North America without a club last season, Sandström is eager: 'I feel very motivated to start the job and the journey ahead for HV71,' he said.
