SHL Stars Make Triumphant Comebacks, Boosting Their Teams

The Swedish Hockey League (SHL) witnessed remarkable comeback performances from prominent players, significantly impacting recent matches and promising to shape team fortunes as the 2025 season progresses.

Oskar Steen returned to Färjestad after an upper body injury sidelined him for over a month. In his comeback against Linköping, Steen not only assisted in Gabriel Carlsson's goal during the first period but also scored the winning penalty in the shootout, securing a 3-2 victory after a 2-2 tie in regular time. Reflecting on this moment, Steen said, “Jag har väntat länge på det där målet!” (I have waited a long time for that goal!). The match also featured a rare penalty against Linköping’s Linus Johansson for an early faceoff, adding to the drama. Färjestad’s next challenge will be hosting Leksand, while Linköping is set to face Växjö.

Meanwhile, Marcus Gidlöf stood out for Leksand with a captivating shutout performance, saving all 38 shots against Djurgården during his long-awaited return after 14 matches absent due to injury. Gidlöf described the injury period as “the worst nine weeks” of his career, recalling the nervousness he felt before returning to a sold-out Globen, which witnessed an attendance of 13,950 fans. His stellar effort not only helped Leksand reduce their relegation zone gap from twelve to ten points but also energized supporters who celebrated him with chants acknowledging his significance, especially recalling his prior loan spell at Djurgården that was instrumental in their promotion.

In off-ice developments, Färjestad is on the verge of welcoming back David Tomasek, a former league points leader and Guldhjälmen recipient. After the Edmonton Oilers terminated his contract following 22 games, Tomasek is close to signing with Färjestad. The team’s sports director, Rickard Wallin, expressed enthusiasm about this acquisition, emphasizing Tomasek’s rare skill set and the boost his scoring prowess will provide amid Färjestad's current offensive challenges.

These comebacks and potential signings highlight a period of rejuvenation and strategic strengthening in the SHL, with key players returning to form just as their teams need them most.