The Eastern European league KHL became significantly less attractive to non-Russian players after Russia's invasion of Ukraine last spring.
This has meant that many talented players have instead gone to Sweden, Finland and Switzerland.
We can look forward to one of the best seasons since the 2004-2005 lockout season.
At least if Skellefteå's Robert Ohlsson is to be believed.
- Now that the players are not away in Russia, but instead play here and in Switzerland, we have even more high-profile players.
That makes us a better and more attractive league.
It gives the opportunity to grow even more, he says and continues:
- It will be interesting to see who gets the group together.
It is work that must be done every day.
Since last spring, Skellefteå has lost, among others, Linus Karlsson, Melker Karlsson and Adam Mascherin.
Ohlsson thinks that he has lost some of his edge, but that he still has a good turpp.
One he really pays tribute to is returner Pär Lindholm.
- He is very important.
He is one of the best centers in the league.
Many talented people have come home with (Anton) Lander and Johan Larsson.
But Pär maintains that level.
It will be fun to watch, says Ohlsson.
Veteran Joakim Lindström extended after many ups and downs, but Melker Karlsson has not yet signed a contract with a new club.
- I don't know where Melker stands.
He has not chosen to jump on and train with us.
Having said that, he might start tomorrow.
You don't know that.
So it was with "Jocke".
However, he had a small injury after the season.
Now it's healed and he's started playing a little padel, I know, says Ohlsson.