Both AIK and Modo are set to enter their Hockeyallsvenskan quarterfinal series on March 16 with nearly full rosters after injury challenges. AIK assistant coach Niklas Andersson reports that key players are recovering in time, while Modo head coach Fredrik Andersson confirms his stars will be available. The teams, finishing fourth and fifth in the regular season, aim to build momentum in their final games.
AIK secured fifth place in the Hockeyallsvenskan regular season table and will face fourth-placed Modo in the quarterfinals starting March 16, with two rounds remaining in the schedule. The team has endured injuries throughout the season but now anticipates an injury-free lineup for the playoffs. Assistant coach Niklas Andersson stated, “It looks good. Mostly safety measures. We expect all available for playoffs.” Players Ludwig Blomstrand, Simon Åkerström, and Christoffer Björk missed the recent game but are expected to return; Åkerström sat as a precaution, Blomstrand is recovering, and Björk is being eased back after a knee injury.
AIK's roster depth has improved compared to last season, a key focus in their offseason evaluation. Andersson noted, “Our depth is broader. We were fragile last year. It was a big point in our evaluation.” The team suffered a recent loss to Vimmerby but downplayed it due to fatigue and secured positioning. Top scorer Scott Pooley has not scored in eight games, yet Andersson remains unconcerned: “He'll score soon. He's improved his daily work. Not worried.” AIK hosts Östersund on Wednesday.
Modo has also dealt with absences, particularly offensive stars Emil Larsson, Gerry Fitzgerald, and Tyler Kelleher. However, head coach Fredrik Andersson expects all back for the playoffs, providing 14 forwards and nine defensemen. “That's the plan we've worked towards, realistic,” he said. Fitzgerald trained partially on Tuesday, Kelleher is fully fit for Wednesday's home game against Oskarshamn, and Larsson's status will be assessed by Friday's away match at Almtuna. Absences forced rotations and strained the team, contributing to power-play struggles. Andersson explained, “Our Achilles heel, affected by absences and rotation. Need continuity.” Post-season, Modo plans rest and line work before the series, while focusing on structure in final games.
