Alfons Freij is departing Timrå to join the Winnipeg Jets organization after attending their development camp. The 20-year-old defenseman had planned to remain with the Swedish club for another season.
Freij had two years left on his contract and expected to take on a larger role in Timrå this year. He had promised the team he would stay and contribute more offensively, including on the power play.
The decision changed after meetings with Jets general manager and coach at the camp. They told him playing in North America would best help him reach his goals.
"It sucked. I had promised them to stay one more year, so it was really bad that it became such a late decision," Freij said. He described mixed feelings but noted the opportunity ahead while missing teammates, the city and fans.
Timrå now loses a key defenseman who broke through in the SHL last season and won gold with Sweden at the World Junior Championship.