Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of Skellefteå AIK's six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the Swedish team - here's what they had to say!
Genève-Servette Head Coach Sam Hallam: “Skellefteå are a club I know very well. They consistently develop excellent players and play a fast, structured game. They’re always among the strongest teams in Sweden, so it’s a fixture that naturally stands out.”
HC Davos Head Coach Josh Holden: “Ten Finals in the last 16 years. Two SHL titles in the last three years. Arguably one of the most successful teams of modern times. I’m excited for this game. It will get us prepared to start our season in Switzerland.”
Red Bull Salzburg Head Coach Alan Letang: “Skellefteå represent the gold standard of SHL hockey. They thrive on puck possession and will punish you if your details aren’t sharp. Going into their building at this stage of the competition is exactly what you want as a competitor. We will need to play at Playoff level, pace and intensity.”
HK Nitra Head Coach Erik Caladi: “A traditional Swedish club with a rich history. This will be another great test against a top-tier Swedish side, and I believe we can build upon and replicate our successful performances against them from 11 years ago.”
Adler Mannheim Head Coach Dallas Eakins: “One of the true giants of Swedish hockey. They have built a championship culture, consistently develop elite players and know exactly what it takes to compete at the highest level in Europe. It’s a tremendous challenge and an opportunity we’re really looking forward to.”
HC Pilsen Head Coach Josef Jandač: “One of the strongest clubs in Europe. They do an excellent job developing young players, play at a very high pace and possess outstanding puck skills. For both coaches and players, this is the kind of game that shows where you really stand.”