Södertälje SK has signed forward Gabriel Olsson from Kalmar HC for the next season on a two-year contract. The 28-year-old right-shot player, who had a contract with Kalmar remaining, was allowed to leave after five years with the club. SSK confirmed the deal on Monday evening.
Södertälje recently eliminated Kalmar in the playoffs before securing Olsson's signature. The forward produced 14-15 points per season in a third- or fourth-line role and scored three goals in seven quarterfinal games against Södertälje. He is expected to fill a similar position in his new team under coach Andreas Johansson, who took a liking to him during the series. Olsson had been with Kalmar for five years, contributing to their rise from Hockeyettan to a top Hockeyallsvenskan club. Despite a contract for next season, Kalmar permitted his departure. Hockeynews first reported the move, which SSK later confirmed officially. AIK had advanced discussions with Olsson, a favorite of coach Viktor Tuurala from his Kalmar days. Johansson's interest during the quarterfinals proved decisive for the transfer.
