Wildcats Sign Import NHL Defenseman

The Moncton Wildcats have announced the signing of Swedish left shot defenseman Loke Johansson for the upcoming 2024-25 season. 

Johansson, 18, is fresh off of getting selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NHL Entry draft by the Boston Bruins. He is the second Swedish blueliner taken by the Bruins to play with the Wildcats in recent memory, with former 2018 second rounder Axel Andersson being the other. Last season, Johansson split time between Swedish juniors and HockeyAllsvenskan -- the second tier Swedish pro league. He netted 13 points (5+8) in 33 games with AIK Jr., before icing in 19 games with the main squad, adding an assist. Standing at 6-foot-3, he should help provide some physicality, maturity and a well rounded two way game to an already strong d-corp. 

He was the 37th overall selection in the CHL Import Draft.

As for the Wildcats' other import pick, Aron Kiviharju, it would appear that the expectation is that he will likely remain in pro hockey as he is still under contract with HIFK for the 2024-25 season.

Even if Kiviharju doesn't come over this season, the Wildcats have solidifed their defenses greatly with the additions of Predators prospect Dylan MacKinnon from Halifax and now Loke Johansson.

The big question is, will this be enough for the team to land them a QMJHL championship, and further a Memorial Cup? Only time will tell.