Oliver Okuliar, a key player in Skellefteå AIK's SHL championship win, has announced he will remain with the club for the upcoming season. The Slovak forward dismissed NHL rumors and highlighted his contract commitment. His decision follows a dominant playoff performance leading to the SM-guld.
Skellefteå AIK secured the SHL SM-guld by defeating Rögle BK 4-1 in the final series. Oliver Okuliar shone as one of the team's top performers, tallying 13 points in 15 playoff games—second-best on the squad. In the finals, he led with six points, including four goals, across five matches. The 25-year-old called the victory 'magical,' noting it was his third final appearance after losses with Mountfield in 2023 and Charlotte Checkers in the AHL in 2025. 'It feels like a weight lifting off my shoulders,' Okuliar told Folkbladet. 'You never know if you'll win something in your career, and the first time is always the hardest.'Amid NHL speculation throughout the season, Okuliar provided clear assurance about his future. He produced 15 goals and 29 points in 46 regular-season SHL games after signing a two-year contract with Skellefteå. The forward also represented Slovakia at the Olympics in Milano in February.'I haven't talked to any NHL team all season,' Okuliar said to Folkbladet. 'I have a contract here next season, and unless Erik Forssell, the general manager, breaks it, I'll play here. Hopefully, we repeat this.' His commitment bolsters Skellefteå's roster as they defend the title.
