SHL 2025–26: Early Title Favorites
The SHL’s 51st season is underway, and the chase for the Le Mat Trophy looks wide open. Brynäs return to the top flight with the league’s most valuable squad, but established powers like Luleå, Frölunda, and Skellefteå are already staking their claims.
Top Teams by Squad Value
| Rank | Team | Squad Value (USD) | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brynäs IF | $5.81M | Deep roster, SHL experience |
| 2 | Luleå HF | $5.4M | Cohesive defense, smart signings |
| 3 | Frölunda HC | $4.46M | Elite youth, creative forwards |
| 4 | Timrå IK | $4.13M | Goaltending, home form |
| 5 | Skellefteå AIK | $3.63M | Talent pipeline, offensive depth |
| 6 | Örebro HK | $3.53M | Two-way hockey, emerging stars |
| 7 | Rögle BK | $3.50M | Fast pace, strong power play |
| 8 | Färjestad BK | $3.48M | Physicality, playoff pedigree |
Contender Snapshots
- Brynäs IF: Back in the SHL after dominating Allsvenskan. The most valuable squad on paper, but must adjust quickly to top-flight pace.
- Luleå HF: Elite defensive structure reinforced with smart additions. If the scoring dries up, can the blue line carry them?
- Frölunda HC: Known for fast, creative hockey and developing young stars. Special teams make them dangerous in tight games.
- Timrå IK & Skellefteå AIK: Both boosted by strong goaltending and offensive balance. Timrå’s home ice is a fortress, while Skellefteå’s player development pipeline keeps delivering.
- Örebro, Rögle, Färjestad: All capable of deep runs, but each needs consistency and big-game composure to stay in the title mix.
Storylines to Watch
- Will Brynäs’ high investment pay off immediately after promotion?
- Which traditional SHL powers can fend off surprise challengers?
- Can newly promoted Djurgården ride their fan power into a Cinderella run?
Outlook: Brynäs, Luleå, Frölunda, and Skellefteå look like the early front-runners, but parity across the SHL suggests upsets and breakout stars will define the season. Expect a tight, high-stakes race for the Le Mat Trophy.