Milwaukee Admirals defenseman Mark Friedman has signed a two-year deal with Rögle BK in Sweden, as announced recently. Friedman, who was selected in the third round of the 2014 NHL Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, will be dividing his time this season among the Admirals, Abbotsford Canucks, and Vancouver Canucks. Although he went scoreless in five NHL games, he managed to tally three goals and 16 assists for a total of 19 points over 41 AHL games.
During the Admirals’ Calder Cup playoff run, Friedman played in 10 games, scoring one goal and contributing three points. Since turning professional at the close of the 2016-17 season, he has appeared in 93 NHL regular season games across stints with the Flyers, Canucks, and Pittsburgh Penguins, accumulating four goals and nine assists for 13 points.
As Friedman transitions to the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), he is expected to have the chance to establish a steady role, showcasing his abilities in all areas of the game. Although he was unable to secure a permanent spot in the NHL, Friedman possesses the skills necessary to make a significant impact for Rögle BK.
Fan Take: This move is significant for hockey fans because it illustrates how talented players can find new opportunities and growth overseas, potentially revitalizing their careers. For the sport, it highlights the increasing interconnectedness of global hockey leagues and the diverse paths players take to succeed.
