Hockey Allsvenskan 2025: Promotion and Playoff Contenders
The 2025–26 HockeyAllsvenskan season is underway, and with Djurgården promoted to the SHL, the battle for top spots is wide open. From Karlskoga’s firepower to Björklöven’s playoff pedigree, the race for promotion is shaping up as one of Europe’s most competitive.
Early Standings (September 2025)
| Rank | Team | Notable Strengths | 2024–25 Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Djurgårdens IF | Deep roster, SHL experience | League winner, promoted to SHL |
| 2 | BIK Karlskoga | Fast offense, returning stars | Semifinalist |
| 3 | Södertälje SK | Young core, skilled forwards | Quarterfinalist |
| 4 | IF Björklöven | Balanced, playoff-tested | Top-4, passionate fan base |
| 5 | AIK | Strong defense, top signings | Mid-table, big ambitions |
Other challengers: Västerås, Mora IK, Nybro Vikings, Kalmar HC.
Contender Snapshots
- BIK Karlskoga: Led the league in goals last season with Hampus Plato and Leevi Viitala driving the attack. Key question: can their defense stand up in crunch time?
- Södertälje SK: A young group finding its stride, with Filip Holst Persson and Tim-Kristian Lukkarinen leading the charge. Need to prove they can win close playoff games.
- IF Björklöven: Consistent contenders with Oscar Tellström and Gustaf Kangas. Their fortress home ice and experience could carry them, but special teams must improve.
- AIK: Reinforced with Daniel Ljungman and Felix Johansson, giving them the ambition and depth for a serious playoff push if chemistry comes quickly.
Storylines to Watch
- Promo race wide open: Without Djurgården, there’s no clear frontrunner.
- Rising stars: Several NHL draft prospects—Ljungman, Kangas, Viitala—add intrigue.
- Fan power: Clubs like Björklöven, Södertälje, and AIK boast massive support, making home ice a true weapon.
Outlook: BIK Karlskoga’s attack and Björklöven’s playoff steel make them the early favorites, but Södertälje’s maturing core and AIK’s bold signings could shift the picture. Expect a tight, unpredictable race that keeps Sweden’s hockey fans hooked all season.