When Tampa Bay became champions this summer, it was a special feeling that came to the team, which had worked together for a long time.

- We knew that it might be the last dance with that team.

We lost five very good players during the summer, right after.

It was a big part of our motivation during the playoffs, that this is probably the last time we do this together.

There is a lot of love for each other, we have become like a family and love each other as a family, says Victor Hedman to SVT Sport

The width has left, the tip remains.

This is what it looks like when Tampa Bay will try to defend the Stanley Cup trophy and become the first team to win three straight rings since the New York Islanders did so between 1980-83.

"Feels like we're getting better and better"

The frame and stars remain, such as Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Steven Stamkos, goalkeeper Andrei Vasilevsky and of course the Swedish back star, Victor Hedman.

But the width has left.

- Now we have added other players.

We have a large core group that has been together for a long time.

It feels like we are getting better and better and as long as we have Vasse (Andrei Vasilevsky) in the back we will have a chance to win.

The last two seasons have, due to covid-19, been decided with shortened basic series.

Now it is again 82 rounds and a slightly more normal situation than previous years.

- I think it will get better.

Meeting the same team eight times was not as fun.

Some may also play away games and hopefully the Olympics.

There is a lot to look forward to during the season.

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Hedman: "A lot to look forward to during the season"