Tag: IHM News

Filander forced into early timeout as Färjestad rout Örebro

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Martin Filander, 45, was Örebro’s head coach for the SHL season opener against Färjestad and took his first timeout as Örebro coach when Färjestad had made it 3-0 in the 13th minute. Axel Bergkvist scored to make it 3-0 at 12:43 of the first period, assisted by Oskar Steen and Radim Zohorna. Färjestad completed a comprehensive 7-0 victory, the scoreboard reading 4-0 after the first period, 2-0 in the second and 1-0 in the third. Three of Färjestad’s goals arrived on the power play.

Key Facts

  • Martin Filander was Örebro’s head coach for the SHL season opener against Färjestad.
  • When Färjestad made it 3-0 in the 13th minute, Martin Filander took his first timeout as Örebro head coach.
  • Axel Bergkvist scored the 3-0 goal at 12:43 of the first period; the goal was assisted by Oskar Steen and Radim Zohorna.
  • Färjestad won the match 7-0 with period scores 4-0, 2-0 and 1-0.
  • Three of Färjestad’s goals were scored on the power play.
  • TV4 commentator Stefan Klemetz described it as a tough first period in which Färjestad capitalised on their power-play chances.

IHM Discussion

The result underlines how decisive special teams can be in an opening fixture. Färjestad converted repeatedly with the man advantage and built a multi-goal lead inside the opening quarter of an hour, forcing an early timeout from Filander as he sought to halt the momentum. Bergkvist’s first-period strike – supplied by Steen and Zohorna – came at the end of a damaging spell that set the tone for the rest of the game. A 7-0 final score with a 4-0 first period leaves little room for optimism in terms of defensive shape or in-game adjustments from Örebro on this occasion.

Why It Matters

A heavy defeat in the season opener is an immediate test for a coach. Örebro conceded three power-play goals as Färjestad established control of the match. How Örebro responds will offer an early indication of Filander’s approach to momentum swings and penalty-kill structure, while Färjestad will take confidence from a dominant power-play performance.

Košice beat Nitra in overtime after high-tempo Tipsport liga clash

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Košice beat Nitra in overtime after a high-tempo contest. Coach Ceman said his side took time to adjust to the intensity and paid for puck losses in the first period, when Nitra created several quality chances. Košice improved their puck management in the second period, created quick counter-attacks and eventually secured the extra-time win. Nitra coach Erik Čaládi said Košice gradually took control and restricted his side’s chances with their defensive play.

Key Facts

  • Košice beat Nitra in overtime; coach Ceman described it as the fastest game his team has played this season.
  • Ceman said Košice’s puck losses in the first period led directly to four of Nitra’s quality chances, including a goal.
  • Ceman said Košice improved in the second period, with fewer puck losses and quick counter-attacks, before winning in overtime.
  • Nitra coach Erik Čaládi acknowledged Košice seized momentum and limited Nitra’s chances with defensive play: ” Košice took the momentum; with their defensive game they did not let us into chances.”

IHM Discussion

The game underlined how quickly momentum can shift in a high-tempo contest. Ceman said Košice’s own early puck losses gave Nitra several quality chances, including a goal. Košice then managed the puck more cleanly in the second period and found opportunities on quick counter-attacks. Čaládi felt Košice gradually took control through their defensive play, limiting Nitra’s chances as the game developed.

Why It Matters

Košice showed they could recover after a difficult opening spell rather than allowing early mistakes to define the game. Their improved puck management and defensive control gave them a route back into the contest before the overtime win.

Mini Q&A

How did Košice secure their win over Nitra?

Košice recovered from early puck losses, improved their play in the second period and won in overtime.

What did coach Ceman say was decisive in the match?

Ceman said Košice’s puck losses gave Nitra four quality chances, including a goal, in the first period. He highlighted better puck control and quick counter-attacks in the second.

IHM Final View

Košice’s overtime win was built on a clear in-game adjustment. After early puck losses created danger for Nitra, Košice settled into the contest, improved their possession game and gradually imposed a stronger defensive structure.

Frederikshavn v Esbjerg: Metal Ligaen preview for 20 September

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Frederikshavn White Hawks meet Esbjerg Energy at Nordjyske Bank Arena on 20 September, with a 15:00 scheduled start. Frederikshavn arrive having scored 12 goals, won their previous two home games and put together five consecutive wins. Esbjerg have a 3-14 goal record and no points from their first two away matches, despite a 4-0 victory over Odense on the preceding Friday.

Key Facts

  • Preview titled ” OPTAKT: Frederikshavn White Hawks-Esbjerg Energy” by Michael Søvsø.
  • The game was scheduled to start at 15:00 at Nordjyske Bank Arena.
  • Frederikshavn White Hawks had scored 12 goals before the game and had won their previous two home games.
  • The preview also stated Frederikshavn entered the match after five consecutive wins.
  • Esbjerg Energy had a 3-14 goal record before the game and had taken zero points from their first two away matches.
  • Esbjerg had beaten Odense 4-0 on the preceding Friday.

IHM Discussion

Frederikshavn White Hawks enter with strong momentum. Their 12 goals, five consecutive wins and victories in their previous two home games point to confidence at Nordjyske Bank Arena. Esbjerg’s 3-14 goal record and zero points from their opening two away fixtures present a sharply different picture, although the 4-0 win over Odense on the preceding Friday shows they can deliver a complete performance. The match gives Frederikshavn a chance to extend their sequence and Esbjerg an opportunity to find greater consistency on the road.

Why It Matters

For Frederikshavn, a home win would extend an encouraging sequence. For Esbjerg, a positive result would offer a chance to build on the 4-0 victory over Odense and improve their early away record.

Pavel Dorofeyev’s Connecticut training eases Rangers transition

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Pavel Dorofeyev has used Connecticut as a summer training base for four years and this off-season that familiarity helped him integrate into the New York Rangers after being acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights on June 26. The 25-year-old left-winger rented an apartment each summer to train at Prentiss Hockey in Stamford, an arrangement set up by his agent Rick Komarow. That proximity allowed Dorofeyev to work alongside several Rangers – J.T. Miller, Matt Rempe, Gabe Perreault, Adam Fox and Scott Morrow – and grow familiar with goalie Igor Shesterkin and his family, who also returned to Connecticut from Moscow for the summer. Early in camp Dorofeyev has skated on the left wing with Miller at centre and newcomer Oliver Bjorkstrand on the right. His arrival brings a significant scoring pedigree: Dorofeyev scored 72 goals over the previous two seasons with Vegas, including an NHL-high 37 last season (20 on the power play), and added 12 playoff goals with five on the power play while helping Vegas reach the Stanley Cup Final. New York expects him to be an additional shooting threat, particularly on the power play, where his left-handed shot is likely to line up on the right flank for a one-timer.

Key Facts

  • Pavel Dorofeyev was acquired by the New York Rangers from the Vegas Golden Knights on June 26.
  • The Rangers are paying Dorofeyev $77 million across seven seasons.
  • Dorofeyev is 25 years old.
  • He has rented an apartment in Connecticut each of the past four summers to train at Prentiss Hockey in Stamford; that arrangement was originally set up by his agent, Rick Komarow.
  • This summer Dorofeyev trained alongside forwards J.T. Miller, Matt Rempe and Gabe Perreault, and defenceman Adam Fox; he also skated with defenceman Scott Morrow.
  • Dorofeyev has gotten to know goalie Igor Shesterkin and his family, who returned to Connecticut from Moscow for the summer.
  • Early in training camp Dorofeyev has been skating on the left wing with J.T. Miller at centre and Oliver Bjorkstrand on the right wing.
  • Dorofeyev scored 72 goals across the past two seasons with the Golden Knights, including an NHL-high 37 last season, 20 of which were on the power play.
  • Dorofeyev ranked 20th in the NHL in goals and second in power-play goals last season.
  • Dorofeyev scored 12 playoff goals in the postseason that sent Vegas to the Stanley Cup Final; his five power-play goals were an NHL high in that playoff run.
  • The Rangers finished fifth in the NHL on the power play last season at 24.7 percent and were 27.6 percent over the final 26 games after trading Artemi Panarin on Feb. 4.
  • Dorofeyev is a left-handed shooter who is expected to set up on the right flank to use a one-timer on New York’s power play.

IHM Discussion

Dorofeyev’s decision to continue living and training in Connecticut gave him familiarity with several Rangers before training camp. By being present in the same community as teammates, he arrived as a familiar face rather than a stranger. Adam Fox said that extra ice and off-ice contact before a shortened training camp can help players understand each other’s tendencies. Dorofeyev also brings a proven scoring record: 37 goals last season, including 20 on the power play.

Dorofeyev trained with Miller and has skated on his line early in camp, suggesting the Rangers are testing whether Miller’s distribution can create the shooting opportunities Dorofeyev previously found with Tomas Hertl and Jack Eichel in Vegas. Sullivan described Miller as a playmaker who can create offence in different ways, while Dorofeyev’s task is to find shooting positions and finish. That does not guarantee immediate results, but the existing familiarity can help shorten the adjustment period.

Why It Matters

New York needs goals. The Rangers’ acquisition of Dorofeyev adds a proven scorer who can strengthen both the power play and the 5-on-5 attack. With 20 regular-season power-play goals last season and five more in the playoffs, he gives a unit that ranked among the League leaders another finishing option. Familiarity with teammates and his living surroundings may also allow him to focus on on-ice adjustments during a shortened training camp. For a club that finished last in the Metropolitan Division last season, the scoring upgrade and early chemistry are important.

Mini Q&A

Where did Dorofeyev train in the off-season?

He trained at Prentiss Hockey in Stamford, Connecticut, renting an apartment in the state each of the past four summers.

When was Dorofeyev traded to the Rangers?

He was acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights on June 26.

What is Dorofeyev’s contractual situation as reported?

The Rangers are paying him $77 million across the next seven seasons.

How did Dorofeyev perform in recent seasons?

He scored 72 goals over the previous two seasons with Vegas, including an NHL-high 37 last season and 20 power-play goals; he also added 12 playoff goals with five on the power play.

What early line combination has Dorofeyev skated in during camp?

Early in training camp he was skating on the left wing with J.T. Miller at centre and Oliver Bjorkstrand on the right wing.

What upcoming team checkpoint was noted in the report?

The Rangers open the season against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden on Sept. 29.

Coach Mark Comment

Dorofeyev’s summer work with Rangers teammates should make the early camp communication easier, particularly on a new line. A left-handed shooter on the right flank presents a clear one-timer option and gives penalty killers another shooting threat to account for. The key will be building reliable timing with Miller while keeping Dorofeyev in positions where he can release the puck quickly.

What Comes Next

The Rangers have begun practices and are preparing for their Sept. 29 season opener against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.

IHM Final View

Dorofeyev’s summer base in Connecticut helped smooth his integration into the Rangers by building familiarity with teammates and surroundings before a shortened camp. His scoring record and power-play finishing address a clear need for New York.

Olomouc beat Plzeň in overtime after disputed Filip elbow on Gewiese

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

A contentious moment late in the second period of HC Olomouc‘s home game against HC Škoda Plzeň left Olomouc players and staff angered after Matyáš Filip caught Olomouc defenceman Petr Gewiese in the face with his elbow. The referees did not stop play and, after reviewing the incident on video during the interval, did not penalise Filip. Olomouc won 3:2 after overtime.

Journalists sought comment from Gewiese and both coaching staffs after the game, but Olomouc spokesman Tomáš Schmiedt said Gewiese would not appear because he had a split lip and was struggling to speak. When the coaches were asked about the incident, Schmiedt said criticism of the referees was not permitted. Olomouc assistant Petr Svoboda and Plzeň assistant Václav Pletka offered only limited responses. Filip, a 25-year-old Plzeň forward, apologised and described the contact as accidental.

Key Facts

  • Match: HC Olomouc v HC Škoda Plzeň – Olomouc won 3:2 after overtime.
  • The disputed incident occurred in the final minute of the second period when Matyáš Filip struck Petr Gewiese in the face with his elbow.
  • Referees did not stop play at the time of the hit and reviewed the incident on video during the interval without imposing a penalty.
  • Blood remained on the ice after the hit.
  • Olomouc expected a five-minute penalty plus game misconduct. The officials could no longer issue a two-minute penalty after returning to the incident without having stopped play.
  • Reporters asked to interview Gewiese after the game; HC Olomouc spokesman Tomáš Schmiedt said: ” Gewiese won’t come, he has a split lip, it’s hard for him to speak.”
  • At the press conference Olomouc assistant Petr Svoboda initially relayed the referees’ explanation that there was motion and that Filip had tried to play the puck, comparing the contact to a missed shot whose follow-through hits a player.
  • When further comment was requested, Schmiedt intervened and said criticising the referees was not permitted. Svoboda then said: “The referees explained it to us, we agree with their version and I will not comment further.”
  • Plzeň assistant coach Václav Pletka also declined to elaborate, saying they only saw the play on video later and were waiting for the referees’ decision.
  • Plzeň forward Matyáš Filip, 25, addressed journalists and apologised: ” I was playing the puck behind me and as I raised my arms I accidentally hit him in the face. I’m sorry. I didn’t want to. There was no intent. Unfortunately, it’s part of the game. Then I apologised to him.”

IHM Discussion

The episode combined a visible injury to an experienced Olomouc defenceman with frustration at an unpenalised hit. Journalists sought a direct reaction from Gewiese and both benches, but Schmiedt said Gewiese was unable to speak easily because of his split lip and intervened when the coaches were asked to assess the officials’ decision.

Svoboda relayed the explanation given to Olomouc: Filip had been moving to play the puck. After Schmiedt’s intervention, he said the club accepted the officials’ explanation and would not add more. Pletka said Plzeň had only seen the incident on video and were waiting for the officials’ decision. Filip’s own explanation was more direct: he said he accidentally struck Gewiese while playing the puck and later apologised.

Why It Matters

The incident raises practical questions about player safety and the limits of in-game officiating after play continues following a facial injury. Olomouc’s bench expected a major penalty, while the officials did not stop play and ultimately imposed no sanction.

The press conference also became part of the story. Schmiedt’s intervention restricted how far the coaches would go in discussing the decision, leaving Filip’s apology as the clearest direct account of the contact.

Mini Q&A

What happened to Petr Gewiese?

Matyáš Filip caught Petr Gewiese in the face with his elbow in the final minute of the second period. Blood remained on the ice, and Gewiese did not attend the post-match press conference because Olomouc said he had a split lip and was struggling to speak.

Why was Matyáš Filip not penalised more severely?

The referees did not stop play when the incident occurred and later reviewed it on video. Olomouc expected a five-minute penalty plus game misconduct, while the officials could no longer issue a two-minute penalty after returning to the incident without having stopped play.

How did HC Olomouc handle the press conference?

HC Olomouc spokesman Tomáš Schmiedt told journalists that Gewiese would not come because he had a split lip and could not speak easily, and he intervened when coaches were asked for opinions about the referees, saying criticism of officials was not permitted. After that intervention, Olomouc assistant Petr Svoboda said the club agreed with the referees’ explanation and would not comment further.

Did Matyáš Filip comment?

Yes. The 25-year-old forward said he was trying to play the puck behind him and accidentally hit Gewiese in the face as he raised his arms. He apologised and said there was no intent.

IHM Final View

Olomouc’s 3:2 overtime win over Plzeň was overshadowed by the hit on Gewiese and the handling of the aftermath. Filip apologised and said the contact was accidental, while the officials did not penalise the play after reviewing it during the interval. Schmiedt then stepped in at the press conference as journalists pressed both benches for their view of the decision.

Lindholm ready for Frölunda opener as Clark receives clearance

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Frölunda have received two positive squad updates ahead of their league opener. New signing Graeme Clark has been cleared by Migrationsverket to be available, while Lindholm – who injured his foot in April – has returned to the squad and is training in a line with Oskar Olausson and Nicklas Lasu. Head coach Robert Ohlsson said Lindholm’s rehabilitation has exceeded expectations after the club had projected a return later in the autumn.

Key Facts

  • New signing Graeme Clark has received clearance from Migrationsverket to play in the opener.
  • Lindholm injured his foot during training in April.
  • The club had expected Lindholm to return later in the autumn, with Robert Ohlsson describing mid-November as a reasonable target.
  • Lindholm disagreed with the initial projection and texted Ohlsson examples of players who had returned after four and a half months.
  • After rehabilitating through the summer, Lindholm is back in the squad and training with Oskar Olausson and Nicklas Lasu ahead of Saturday’s league opener.
  • Lindholm described the recovery as a tough journey, saying everyday tasks became difficult and the uncertainty was challenging.
  • Two other Frölunda players will miss the opener through injury, but both are expected back shortly.

IHM Discussion

The updates improve Frölunda’s options ahead of the opener. Clark’s clearance removes an administrative obstacle, while Lindholm’s return gives the coaching staff another forward option sooner than initially expected. Ohlsson’s comments underline how quickly an individual rehabilitation timeline can change, while Lindholm’s own description reflects the challenge of recovering from a foot injury. Two other Frölunda players remain unavailable through injury but are expected back shortly.

Why It Matters

Clark can now begin his Frölunda season from the opener, while Lindholm’s return gives Ohlsson another forward training with Olausson and Lasu. That creates more flexibility as the season begins.

Mini Q&A

Who has been cleared to play for Frölunda in the opener?

Graeme Clark received clearance from Migrationsverket to play in the premiär.

What is Lindholm’s current status?

Lindholm, who injured his foot in April, is back in the squad and training with Oskar Olausson and Nicklas Lasu ahead of Saturday’s league opener.

Did Lindholm and coach Robert Ohlsson agree on his return timetable?

No. The club had set a conservative return around mid-November, but Lindholm disagreed and texted Ohlsson saying that forecast was wrong; Ohlsson later said Lindholm’s rehab exceeded expectations.

Are there other injured players missing the opener?

Yes. Two other Frölunda players will miss the opener through injury, and both are expected back shortly.

Coach Mark Comment

Lindholm’s return is encouraging, but the key is rebuilding game rhythm after a lengthy absence. Training with Olausson and Lasu gives the coaching staff a useful starting point as they assess how quickly he can be reintegrated.

What Comes Next

Frölunda enter Saturday’s league opener with Clark cleared to play and Lindholm back training with the squad. The club expects its two other injured absentees to return shortly.

IHM Final View

Frölunda’s pre-match outlook has improved. Clark’s administrative clearance and Lindholm’s earlier-than-expected return give Ohlsson more options as the season begins, despite two remaining injury absences.

Färjestad benches new signing Sebastian Cederle for opener

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Färjestad will bench new signing Sebastian Cederle for Saturday’s season opener after reporting full availability among its 14 forwards. Head coach Cam Abbott said the squad has been healthy through pre-season and that selection will be difficult; he added that the club will reassess the situation on Tuesday. Cederle, who joined from HK Nitra after a 13+19 season in 53 games, was one of two forwards rotated into the side at the final training session before the opener. The club says one forward will be benched and another will sit in the stands for the game.

Key Facts

  • Färjestad reports all 14 forwards are available for the season opener.
  • With full depth available, one forward will be benched and one will sit in the stands for the match.
  • Head coach Cam Abbott said: ” Everyone has done a good job throughout the pre-season. Right now we are healthy and it will be a tough decision. We have four games in eight days and we will make a new decision on Tuesday.”
  • New signing Sebastian Cederle will be benched for the opener.
  • At the final training session before the opener, Cederle was one of two forwards rotated into the team.
  • Cederle transferred from HK Nitra, where he registered 13 goals and 19 assists in 53 games last season.
  • Cederle played at the World Championship and recorded 2+1 in that tournament.

IHM Discussion

Färjestad’s decision to bench a recent acquisition for the opener underlines the competition in its forward group. With 14 forwards available, the coaching staff must make difficult selection calls, while Abbott’s reference to four games in eight days leaves scope for another decision on Tuesday. Cederle arrives from HK Nitra after producing 13 goals and 19 assists in 53 games last season, and he also recorded 2+1 at the World Championship. His opening-night status reflects the immediate competition for places rather than any reported availability issue.

Why It Matters

For Cederle, the opening selection decision means he must wait for his first opportunity with Färjestad. For the club, it illustrates the competition across the forward group ahead of a stretch of four games in eight days. Tuesday is the next stated point at which the coaching staff will revisit its selection.

Mini Q&A

Why is Sebastian Cederle benched for the opener?

Färjestad reports all 14 forwards are available, creating a selection decision; coach Cam Abbott called the choice a tough one and indicated it is a consequence of having a healthy, competitive forward group.

What are Cederle’s recent statistics?

Cederle recorded 13 goals and 19 assists in 53 games for HK Nitra last season and logged 2+1 at the World Championship.

Did the club give a timetable for revisiting the decision?

Yes. Abbott said the coaching staff will take a new decision on Tuesday.

Does the benching reflect an injury?

No. The club reports the squad is healthy and all 14 forwards are available.

What Comes Next

Cam Abbott said the club will make a new selection decision on Tuesday; that is the next explicit checkpoint the team has given for the forward group selection.

Tkáč stars as Zvolen beat Liptovský Mikuláš; Nespala lone scorer for visitors

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Daniel Vladimír Tkáč has produced a bright start for Zvolen, contributing five points across the club’s first two fixtures after scoring and assisting in consecutive matches. The 25-year-old, who is in the wider nomination of the Slovak national team, described good forward-line chemistry after Zvolen recovered from a slow opening period to prevail against Liptovský Mikuláš. For the visitors, Jakub Nespala scored Liptovský Mikuláš’s only goal but lamented defensive mistakes and urged his side to move on quickly to their next match against Trenčín.

Key Facts

  • Daniel Vladimír Tkáč is 25 years old.
  • Across two matches, Tkáč scored once and added an assist in one game, then scored twice and registered another assist in the other, giving him five points.
  • Tkáč credited his teammates and the chemistry among Zvolen’s forwards, adding: “We will see how it goes. I believe we will continue to be successful. The main thing is that we won.”
  • Tkáč is in the wider Slovak national-team selection, with the source linking that status to his performances on the ice.
  • Liptovský Mikuláš arrived at Zvolen after a home victory over Michalovce by 5:2.
  • Liptovský Mikuláš took the lead under Pustý hrad and had chances to increase their advantage before ultimately leaving Zvolen without any points.
  • Jakub Nespala scored Liptovský Mikuláš’s only goal in Zvolen. He said the side made too many mistakes in its own zone, struggled to move the puck beyond the defensive line and must quickly turn its attention to Trenčín.

IHM Discussion

Tkáč’s five points from two matches are the clearest early-season storyline for Zvolen. He credited his teammates and the chemistry among the forwards for his output as Zvolen recovered from a slow opening period against Liptovský Mikuláš.

Liptovský Mikuláš arrived after a 5:2 home win over Michalovce but could not hold onto their advantage in Zvolen. Nespala’s goal put the visitors ahead, yet he pointed to defensive-zone mistakes and difficulties moving the puck beyond the defensive line. His focus was simple: put the defeat behind them and turn quickly to Trenčín.

Why It Matters

Tkáč’s multi-point start has helped Zvolen open the season with back-to-back wins and complements his place in the wider Slovak national-team selection. For Liptovský Mikuláš, Nespala’s comments identify defensive-zone execution as an immediate area to address before the meeting with Trenčín.

Mini Q&A

How many points does Daniel Vladimír Tkáč have from Zvolen’s first two games?

Tkáč has five points from the two games described.

What did Tkáč say about his form and the team?

He credited his teammates for setting him up and said there is chemistry among the forwards. He added that the important thing was the win.

Who scored for Liptovský Mikuláš and what did he say after the game?

Jakub Nespala scored the visitors’ only goal. He said they made many defensive-zone mistakes, failed to get the puck behind the defensive line and must quickly forget the defeat and focus on the next game against Trenčín.

Does the source mention any national-team recognition?

Yes.

What Comes Next

Liptovský Mikuláš now turn their attention to Trenčín, with Nespala urging the side to move on quickly from the defeat in Zvolen.

IHM Final View

Zvolen’s early momentum is built on line chemistry and finishing, with Daniel Vladimír Tkáč the most visible beneficiary so far.

Five Finnish players to watch as SHL season opens

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Five Finnish players are in focus as the SHL season opens on Saturday. Otto Kivenmäki has signed a two-year deal with Timrå IK after scoring 134 points for SaiPa across the past two seasons, including playoffs. Max Westergård returned to Frölunda’s senior group in February after a loan to Björklöven and a strong U20 World Championship. Matias Mäntykivi left Ilves for a two-year contract with Växjö Lakers, while Anton Levtchi enters his third Swedish season with Luleå after overcoming heart-rate problems last December and scoring an overtime quarter-final goal against Frölunda HC in the playoffs. Robin Salo signed for Örebro HK on a two-year deal after recording 40 points for Malmö Redhawks and is expected to take on a major leadership role, including the captaincy.

Key Facts

  • Five Finnish players are worth watching as the SHL starts on Saturday.
  • Otto Kivenmäki signed a two-year contract with Timrå IK.
  • Kivenmäki scored 134 points for SaiPa across the past two seasons, playoffs included.
  • SHL is described as a notable step up in quality from Liiga, presenting a greater physical and skating challenge.
  • Max Westergård is a Tappara youth product who has spent three junior seasons with Frölunda. He was loaned to Björklöven in HockeyAllsvenskan and returned to Frölunda’s senior group in February after strong U20 World Championship performances.
  • Matias Mäntykivi played five seasons in Tampere and was among Ilves’ leading scorers before signing a two-year deal with Växjö Lakers.
  • Växjö Lakers have Eemeli Suomi on their roster and the club will be aiming for a fifth Swedish championship.
  • Anton Levtchi, 30, is entering his third season in Sweden with Luleå. He experienced unusual heart-rate problems in December last season but scored an overtime quarter-final goal against Frölunda HC in the SHL playoffs.
  • Robin Salo was Malmö Redhawks’ third-most-productive skater last season with 40 points and ranked sixth among SHL defencemen; he signed a two-year contract with Örebro HK.
  • Salo is from Espoo and a Vaasan Sport youth product. He previously played for Örebro between 2019 and 2021 before moving to North America.
  • Örebro HK plans to give the 27-year-old Salo a significant leadership role for the coming season, including the captain’s armband. He has not previously held a captaincy role.

IHM Discussion

The five profiles combine forward creativity, leadership additions and a defenceman taking on a prominent role. Otto Kivenmäki’s move to Timrå IK is the clearest headline: 134 points over two seasons is a striking measure of form at Liiga level, and the move will test whether he can carry that production into the SHL. Max Westergård’s path has been more incremental, taking in junior success, a HockeyAllsvenskan loan and a return to Frölunda’s senior group. Matias Mäntykivi joins Växjö as a proven Ilves scorer alongside Eemeli Suomi. Anton Levtchi’s profile reflects both his health issues last December and the playoff goal that showed his finishing touch. Salo arrives at Örebro with prior experience of the club and is expected to shoulder substantial leadership responsibility.

Why It Matters

Kivenmäki will be tested against stronger skating and battling opponents, while Mäntykivi joins a Växjö side pursuing a fifth Swedish championship. Levtchi’s form matters to Luleå’s ambitions, and Salo’s leadership role adds another dimension to Örebro’s plans. Westergård, meanwhile, will be looking to establish himself in Frölunda’s regular line-up.

Mini Q&A

Who are the five Finnish players in focus?

Max Westergård, Otto Kivenmäki, Matias Mäntykivi, Anton Levtchi and Robin Salo.

Where did Otto Kivenmäki sign?

Kivenmäki signed a two-year contract with Timrå IK.

How many points did Kivenmäki score for SaiPa over the past two seasons?

He scored 134 points across the past two seasons, including playoffs.

What role is Robin Salo expected to take at Örebro HK?

Örebro plans to give Salo a major leadership role, including the captain’s armband. He has not previously held a captaincy role.

Which player joined Växjö Lakers and what is the club aiming for?

Matias Mäntykivi signed a two-year deal with Växjö Lakers, who are targeting a fifth Swedish championship.

Coach Mark Comment

Kivenmäki’s transition will be measured by how quickly he adjusts to the SHL’s pace and physical battles. For Salo, a leadership role will place added value on clear communication and consistency on the ice.

What Comes Next

The immediate checkpoint is the SHL season opener on Saturday, when these signings and role changes will begin to be tested in competitive play.

IHM Final View

These five players offer different reasons to follow the SHL season: Kivenmäki’s scoring test at Timrå, Westergård’s push for a regular Frölunda place, Mäntykivi’s move to Växjö, Levtchi’s importance to Luleå and Salo’s leadership opportunity at Örebro.

Frederikshavn’s late surge downs Aalborg in Sparekassen Danmark Arena

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Frederikshavn White Hawks completed a memorable late turnaround to beat Aalborg Pirates 4-2 at Sparekassen Danmark Arena. After 40 minutes of play left the home side ahead 2-1, Frederikshavn scored three times in the final period – including goals from Oskar Drugge and Mikkel Skov in the closing minutes and an empty-net finish by Aleksi Halme – to secure a 4-2 win in front of 4,010 spectators. The victory is Frederikshavn’s fifth in a row in Metal Ligaen.

Key Facts

  • Final score: Aalborg Pirates 2-4 Frederikshavn White Hawks.
  • Period scores: (0-0, 2-1, 0-3).
  • Attendance: 4,010 at Sparekassen Danmark Arena.
  • Frederikshavn have now won five consecutive games in Metal Ligaen.
  • Aalborg led 2-1 after two periods before conceding three in the final 20 minutes.
  • Jeppe Jul Korsgaard opened the scoring for Aalborg in the second period, giving the home side 1-0.
  • Leo Ring and Karppinen combined to level the game for Frederikshavn in the second period.
  • Tor Rasmussen restored a 2-1 lead for Aalborg after capitalising on an error by Gustav Nielsen.
  • A late third-period sequence began when Thomas Spelling made a mistake by the boards; Leo Ring stole possession and Oskar Drugge finished into the top corner.
  • Oskar Drugge has now played for and scored for four Danish clubs.
  • Mikkel Skov made it 3-2 for Frederikshavn with roughly 90 seconds remaining.
  • Aleksi Halme completed the scoring with an empty-net goal for Frederikshavn.

IHM Discussion

The match was decided in Frederikshavn’s favour by a furious final period rather than by the first 40 minutes, when Aalborg had generally been the better side and led 2-1 at the second intermission. Marcus Bjørn’s goaltending kept the White Hawks in the contest under heavy Aalborg pressure, with several strong saves during sustained stretches of home-team attack. The decisive swing began after Thomas Spelling lost possession near the boards, allowing Leo Ring to set up Oskar Drugge, who finished into the top corner to level the match. Drugge has now played and scored for four Danish clubs. Mikkel Skov then slid home what proved to be the winner with about a minute and a half remaining, before Aleksi Halme sealed the result into an empty net.

Why It Matters

Frederikshavn’s ability to overturn a 2-1 deficit and settle matches late on is the clearest immediate takeaway. The White Hawks have now decided three away games in the final period, while the five-game winning run underlines their momentum. Aalborg had the better of the first two periods but could not protect their lead through the closing 20 minutes. The result is a useful marker of form and resilience for Frederikshavn.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score and period breakdown?

Aalborg Pirates 2-4 Frederikshavn White Hawks, with period scores (0-0, 2-1, 0-3).

Who scored Frederikshavn’s late goals?

Oskar Drugge scored to level the game late in the third period, Mikkel Skov scored the go-ahead goal with about 90 seconds left, and Aleksi Halme finished into an empty net to make it 4-2.

How many spectators attended the game and where was it played?

The match was played at Sparekassen Danmark Arena in Aalborg with an attendance of 4,010.

What run are Frederikshavn on after this result?

Frederikshavn have now taken five wins in a row in Metal Ligaen.

Which Frederikshavn player was noted for keeping his team in the game with key saves?

Marcus Bjørn was highlighted for several fine saves that helped keep Frederikshavn in the match during Aalborg’s pressure periods.

IHM Final View

Frederikshavn’s late-game form has become a defining feature of this run: three away wins decided in the final period and five consecutive victories point to growing belief. Marcus Bjørn’s saves kept the White Hawks competitive before the visitors found their edge in the final frame. Aalborg will regret failing to protect a 2-1 lead, while Frederikshavn leave with another significant Metal Ligaen win.