As the 2025–26 SHL season kicks off on September 13, Djurgårdens IF hosts Skellefteå AIK in a matchup that favors the home side given Djurgårdens’ strong return to the league after winning the HockeyAllsvenskan last season. Djurgårdens will benefit from home ice advantage at Hovet and the momentum of a confident squad eager to prove themselves at the top level again. Skellefteå AIK, while experienced, face the challenge of travel and adjusting to an away environment early in the season, which could impact their performance.
Djurgårdens’ offensive threat centers on forward Elias Pettersson, who is expected to lead the attack with his playmaking and scoring ability, providing a key edge in tight situations. On the defensive end, goaltender Linus Ullmark’s form will be critical; his ability to keep the puck out of the net could tilt the game in Djurgårdens’ favor. Skellefteå AIK will rely heavily on their veteran defenseman Erik Gustafsson to stabilize the backline and generate transition opportunities, but their success depends on limiting turnovers against a high-tempo Djurgårdens offense.
Potential risks include early-season rust for both teams, as the long offseason can affect conditioning and timing. Injuries have not been reported as a major concern yet, but any last-minute absences could swing momentum. Additionally, Skellefteå’s travel fatigue and the pressure of playing away from home in a season opener add uncertainty to their chances.
Edge to Djurgårdens IF given home advantage, recent promotion momentum, and key player form in Pettersson and Ullmark.