Swedish defenseman Anton Johansson is impressing in the AHL playoffs with the Grand Rapids Griffins. His coach Dan Watson believes the 21-year-old is very close to making the NHL.
Johansson left Leksand after a season that ended with relegation to Hockeyallsvenskan. He recorded 17 points in 47 games there before moving to North America. In Grand Rapids he has produced six points in eight regular-season games and earned significant ice time in the Calder Cup playoffs against the Chicago Wolves.
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Several Swedish hockey players with NHL experience are making moves back to the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) amid recent announcements and reports. Defenseman Sebastian Aho is set to join Växjö next season, while Robert Hägg has extended his stay with Brynäs until 2028. Samuel Johannesson is reportedly joining Frölunda immediately to bolster their defense.
Pontus Johansson has shone in Skellefteå's SM playoff run against Luleå, scoring in recent matches and filling a key role. Expert Staffan Kronwall predicts the 24-year-old will depart Swedish hockey for the NHL after the season. His agent previously confirmed interest from North America's top league.
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Swedish hockey prospect Victor Johansson, a member of this year's JVM team, will leave Leksand IF after their relegation to HockeyAllsvenskan. According to Expressen, the young defenseman has agreed to join rival Brynäs in the SHL. He spent much of the season on loan at Oskarshamn.
Djurgården Hockey has signed defenseman Lucas Carlsson to a four-year contract. The NHL-merited Swede returns home after eight years in North America. Sportchef Marcus Due-Boje praised the addition for its offensive qualities.
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Swedish forward Oskar Olausson is close to returning to the SHL after five seasons in North America. The 23-year-old is finalizing negotiations with Frölunda, according to reports. He is expected to relocate to Göteborg ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Alfons Freij, who had a late-season surge with Timrå in the SHL, has been reassigned to the Winnipeg Jets' AHL affiliate. The young defenceman helped Sweden win gold at the world juniors earlier this year. Timrå missed the playoffs, ending their season.
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The contract-free forward Jakob Lilja is drawing concrete interest from several SHL teams. After seven seasons abroad the 32-year-old could return to Swedish hockey.