What happened: Swedish defenseman Sebastian Aho has signed a two-year contract with the Växjö Lakers of the SHL. The 30-year-old veteran returns to his home country after nine seasons in North America, most recently serving as defensive depth within the Pittsburgh Penguins organization.

Why it matters: Aho’s departure continues a trend of veteran Swedish depth returning to the SHL this offseason, following a similar move by Marcus Johansson earlier this month. The puck-moving blueliner provides Växjö with significant professional experience as they reload for the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Aho is expected to join Växjö for the start of the SHL preseason training camp in August.