Former capitals F Larsson reportedly signs in Sweden; Reason why?
After closing out the 2021-22 campaign with the Washington Capitals, Johan Larsson is reportedly headed home to Sweden.
Per Elite prospects, Larsson has signed a three-year contract with the Swedish Hockey League’s Brynäs IF. This deal has not been announced or finalized yet. However, that would mean that the 30-year-old’s NHL period would end for the time being.
The Capitals brought in Larsson at the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline to help fill Carl Hagelin’s void on the fourth line. He played that role well, complementing Nic Dowd and Garnet Hathaway while remaining aggressive on the forecheck. He had one goal and five assists in 14 games to end the regular season. Larsson also made his NHL playoff debut against it Florida Panthers and had two assists in six games.
But Washington did not take back the UFA, which went on the market to explore its options. There was a report for him to sign Pittsburgh Penguinsalthough nothing happened on that front.
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Per PHNX Sports Craig MorganLarsson reportedly had other offers but was not happy with the role he was to play, leading to his decision to leave.
“I’m told Larsson had solid offers from several NHL teams,” Morgan wrote. “He just wanted to play a bigger role than what was offered, so he’s going home.”
In addition to this, I learn that Johan Larsson had substantial offers from several NHL teams. He just wanted to play a bigger role than what was offered so he goes home. https://t.co/6f6qv1zvAi
— Craig Morgan (@CraigSMorgan) August 10, 2022
Before being traded to the Capitals, Larsson played 29 games for Arizona and collected 15 points. However, his season was put on hold due to sports hernia surgery in early February. He came back at the end of March.