Nicklas Bäckström's Comeback Dims with Brynäs Opening Loss
Nicklas Bäckström returns to SHL with Brynäs but faces disappointment in opening loss to Växjö.
Key Points
- • Bäckerströms returns after 6,756 days, celebrated by home crowd
- • Brynäs loses 6-4 with defensive issues during power plays
- • Bäckström ends game without points but expresses joy in return
- • Johan Larsson scores twice but the team struggles overall
In a highly anticipated return to competitive ice hockey, Nicklas Bäckström made his comeback for Brynäs after 6,756 days away, but the excitement was soured by a 6-4 defeat to Växjö in the SHL season opener on September 13, 2025. Playing in front of a home crowd of 7,909, Bäckström's return was met with raucous cheers, signaling his importance to the team and the sport. However, despite his active participation and playmaking moments—including an assist on Johan Larsson's opening goal—Bäckström ended the game without any points, expressing his disappointment. He stated, "It feels like we lose to a better team over 60 minutes, but it’s wonderful to play hockey and be back. It’s just to try to forget this and move on to Tuesday."
Växjö exploited Brynäs' defensive lapses, particularly during power plays, scoring four power-play goals throughout the game. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with multiple lead changes and a total of 11 goals scored. Larsson found the net twice for Brynäs, while Växjö's Dylan McLaughlin scored twice, contributing to their three consecutive goals in the closing stages that sealed the victory. This match illustrates both the challenges and potential for Bäckström and Brynäs as they look to rebound in their next match.
Overall, the game marked a difficult start to the season for Brynäs, coming off a successful last season, yet raised hopes for future games with Bäckström back on the ice.