The TV-pucken playoffs kicked off in Kalmar with decisive quarterfinal wins for all favorites on day one. Småland crushed Gästrikland 6-1, while Stockholm Nord dominated Norrbotten 8-0. Other results saw Skåne edge Värmland 3-1 and Stockholm Syd defeat Medelpad 5-2.
The first day of the TV-pucken finalspel unfolded at Hatstore Arena in Kalmar, where eight boys' teams vied for the title. All quarterfinals produced clear victors, setting an exciting tone for the tournament.
Småland's Impressive Return
Småland advanced with a commanding 6-1 victory over Gästrikland, showcasing strong depth and team cohesion. Forward Sigge Isaksson, who plays for Växjö Lakers, made a timely return after a serious injury in group play. During Småland's final group match against Göteborg in early September in Ulricehamn, the game halted at 1-1 due to a head tackle on Isaksson, resulting in a concussion. He spent about a month sidelined and visited the hospital for diagnosis.
Isaksson, experiencing his first concussion, expressed mild concern during recovery: "Lite orolig såklart, men jag trodde nog ändå att jag skulle hinna tillbaka." Now fully recovered, he feels no lingering effects and is glad to participate in the playoffs. He praised his team's unity: "Vi har en grym bredd i laget och har en väldigt bra sammanhållning." The home advantage in Småland adds motivation as they push forward.
Stockholm Teams Shine
Stockholm Nord overwhelmed Norrbotten 8-0, outshooting them 40-17. Filip Leijonhielm led with a hattrick, including two power-play goals. Anton Toivola Henriksson contributed two goals and an assist, while goaltender Oscar Rapp secured a shutout.
In a closer contest, Stockholm Syd topped Medelpad 5-2 after an early goal by Adam Odelstål gave Medelpad a brief lead. Syd's top line—Joakim Dahl, Oliver Hammerman, and Melker Wersäll—scored three of the five goals, proving pivotal.
Skåne rounded out the winners with a 3-1 triumph over Värmland.
Early points leaders include Filip Leijonhielm, Anton Toivola Henriksson, Oliver Hammerman, and Simon Viking, all with three points, followed by Joakim Dahl with two.