Mattias Norlinder signs with Swedish powerhouse Frölunda

As reported previously, Mattias Norlinder had an out clause that gave him the right to break the contract extension with Modo if the team did not earn a promotion to the SHL.

Even if Modo launched an appeal on the decision that the Swedish Ice Hockey Association took to end the season and not promote or relegate any teams, Norlinder used that clause and signed with Frölunda. The move was made official today.

Frölunda is not a new connection for Montreal Canadiens fans as Artturi Lehkonen developed in the club prior to coming over and sticking with the NHL squad in his first try, bypassing the AHL.

While the 2020 season was a failure for his new team, as it finished seventh in the domestic league, the club found international success as Frölunda won the Champions Hockey League for the fourth time in six years. The team has also won the Le Mat Trophy twice in recent years — 2016 with Artturi Lehkonen, and 2019 — and will look to add to the trophy cabinet with Norlinder’s help.

Norlinder will develop under coach Roger Rönnberg’s watchful eye and experience. Mr. Rönnberg’s success with Rasmus Dahlin bodes well for the development of the Canadiens prospect, who at times stands out for his offensive skill much in the same way Dahlin did in his time with the organization.