Leksands IF announced the signing of American forward Tyler Kelleher on May 3 as their first major acquisition after relegation to HockeyAllsvenskan. The 31-year-old joins from Modo on a one-year contract, bringing proven playoff scoring prowess. Club officials praised his offensive skills and clutch performances.
Leksand presented Tyler Kelleher as their first new signing for the upcoming HockeyAllsvenskan season, following their drop from SHL after a qualification loss over a month ago. The 31-year-old American forward, who produced 35 points in 45 regular-season games and 15 points in 13 playoff games for Modo last season, signed a one-year deal. Sportchef Jesper Ollas highlighted Kelleher's offensive edge and ability to excel in high-stakes matches. “In Tyler we get a player who will contribute with his offensive qualities. He has experience from HockeyAllsvenskan and has been a leading player in several teams that advanced to SHL,” Ollas said on the club's website. Kelleher previously helped HV71, Brynäs, and Djurgården promote to SHL, earning a reputation as a clutch performer despite mixed regular-season results elsewhere like Rögle and Oskarshamn in SHL, and a stint in Finland. New coach Johan Hedberg called him “an artist on the ice,” emphasizing his creativity, shooting, passing, and pattern-breaking ability, while noting fans might see flashy plays mixed with occasional errors. “He is clutch, entertaining, and can step up in playoffs,” Hedberg told Hockeynews. Hedberg also sees Kelleher boosting Leksand's struggling power play, crucial in HockeyAllsvenskan where it correlates strongly with standings. Modo sportchef Henrik Gradin explained Kelleher's departure stemmed from salary demands exceeding their reduced budget. “He became too expensive as he wanted more than last season and we couldn't match it,” Gradin told ÖA. Analysts viewed the move as Leksand signaling serious SHL ambitions, pairing Kelleher's experience with their young roster. Kelleher expressed excitement: “It's an honor to join such a storied club, and I'm pumped to contribute offensively and lift my teammates.”
