The Caps signed Swedish forward Mattias Sjogren to an entry-level contract today, reportedly for the maximum allowed to a rookie under the CBA. Swedish papers Expressen and Aftonbladet had it early today, and Japers Rink was the first local outlet with the story.
Sjogren is a big, physical player according to scouting reports with good international experince, and should challenge for a spot on the Caps roster in training camp. The Capitals have several unsigned forwards and Sjogren addresses a need to add physicality to the front line.
The following is the press release from the team this afternoon.
ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have signed free agent center Mattias Sjogren to a two-year entry-level contract beginning next season, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today. In keeping with club policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“We are pleased to have Mattias join the Capitals organization,” said McPhee. “He is a big center who has developed very well over the past few seasons and is ready for a new challenge.”
The 6’2”, 214-pound center spent the 2010-11 season with Farjestad of the Swedish Elite League, recording a career-high 24 points (seven goals, 17 assists) and 44 penalty minutes in 51 games. Sjogren helped lead Farjestad to a SEL championship, registering nine points (one goal, eight assists) in 13 postseason games.
Sjogren, 23, represented Sweden at the 2011 IIHF World Championships in Slovakia, winning the silver medal while tallying four points (one goal, three assists) in nine games. He scored the game-winning goal versus USA in the preliminary round.
The native of Landskrona, Sweden has 59 points (24 goals, 35 assists) in 148 career games with Farjestad and Rogle of the SEL.
