Johansson cruises through 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs with Griffins more confident defense
Johansson’s growing self-confidence has paralleled his growth. With Leksands IF this season, the player from Stockholm, Sweden, finished with career highs in goals (5), assists (12) and points (17) in 42 games.
“Leksand has been good to me and my family,” said Johansson. “We’re so glad we had those years there.”
Last spring, when the former fourth-round pick (No. 105 overall) made his AHL debut with the Griffins, much of it felt new. Johansson admitted that’s not the case this time, pointing to his experience as a key difference.
“I feel like I’m more prepared this year,” Johansson said. “I know what this league is about, the players, the team, the system and so on. It feels a lot more relaxed this year than last year.”
Johansson and Grand Rapids will try to avoid elimination in the Central Division Finals against the Chicago Wolves, with Game 3 scheduled for Tuesday night at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill. The Griffins currently trail 2-0 in the best-of-five series.
“It’s a great experience,” Johansson said. “Playing long series and play-offs are things you have to go through in your career.”
