Djurgården fell 0-1 to Malmö Redhawks in the SHL, marking their seventh consecutive home defeat at Hovet. Goaltender Magnus Hellberg made 24 saves but was controversially hit in the crease by Malmö's Kalle Hemström without a penalty. Linus Klasen returned from injury in the lineup.
Djurgården hosted Malmö Redhawks at Hovet in Stockholm on Saturday evening, but the home side extended their dismal home record with a 1-0 loss. The defeat represents Djurgården's seventh straight home loss, leaving them with zero points from their last 21 possible at home. Malmö's lone goal came on a power play, exploiting Djurgården's struggles despite a solid effort from the hosts.
Magnus Hellberg was outstanding in net, stopping 24 of 25 shots for a 96% save percentage, but a controversial incident marred his performance. In the second period, Malmö's young center Kalle Hemström clipped Hellberg's leg with his skate while cutting across the crease, causing the goalie to lose balance. No penalty was called after the four officials discussed it on the ice, though Hellberg later learned the referees reviewed footage and believed it warranted a two-minute minor. "I stand on the goal line looking behind. I thought he hit me with his stick, but now I've seen it was his skate. In the crease, the goalie should be protected, especially in that situation. The refs didn't see it," Hellberg said. He expressed disappointment, adding, "He got away with it this time, but hopes the refs are with us next time." Hellberg noted the risk of injury, similar to a prior collision against HV71, but escaped unharmed.
Head coach Robert Kimby acknowledged the tight match: "It was even. We came out strong in the first period against a good Malmö team that's solid in their zone." He lamented the power-play goal and Malmö's control in the middle frame, calling the third a stalemate. "Even if we work hard and play better than before, it wasn't enough. We lose 1-0. I'd rather play piss and win to break the trend." Kimby emphasized focusing on points over location, with 13-14 games left and eight points above relegation.
Linus Klasen made his long-awaited return after an arm injury sidelined him since September, lining up with Oula Palve and David Blomgren. The 39-year-old, who helped promote Djurgården last season, took short shifts and nearly scored his 100th SHL goal. Injuries continue to plague the team, with Charles Hudon and Jacob Josefson out, and updates pending on their returns. Defenseman Oliver Kylington and August Berg are also sidelined.
Player ratings highlighted Hellberg's 8/10 performance, Hugo Blixt's solid 7/10 defensive work, and Klasen's 5/10 in his comeback. Captain Marcus Krüger, pre-game, praised Klasen's practice form, noting the boost he could provide against a strong Malmö side.
