The Most Valuable Player of the 2016-17 Champions Hockey League season is Frolunda Gothenburg captain Joel Lundqvist.

CHL News

GOTHENBURG – For the third year in a row, the NordicBet MVP Trophy goes to a member of Frolunda Gothenburg. This year's winner is captain Joel Lundqvist, who led the Champions Hockey League with 15 points, tied with linemate Casey Wellman. In addition to his offensive abilities, his leadership has helped Frolunda to a third staight appearance in the CHL Final. 

“I'm proud and honoured, of course,” Lundqvist responded, when informed of the award. “It's felt good in the tournament. We're a strong team, a four-line team, and we have a lot of guys in our group that can score. We're very happy with our performance so far.”

What do you think has clicked for Frolunda in the CHL this season to be so dominant again?

“I feel that we have a hard-working group of guys. Yes, we're in the Final again but we work hard for it. We create a lot of chances but we have a pretty good power play as well, and I still feel that I can move my game up a little but. Bit overall it's been very good so far, and with quality guys around you it makes it easier.”

You said about good guys on the team. How has it been with your linemates this season?

“I've been playing mostly with Casey Wellman this season and we started off really well. In this tournament we've been playing well – almost better than in the SHL! It's been fun. Now we've changed the lines a little bit, but overall we've been having some good chemistry out there so it's been great.”

Anything you want to say to the fans who voted for you?

“Thank you, of course, for voting. It's a huge honour that I'm very happy for and I appreciate their support.”

Previous winners of the NordicBet MVP Trophy are American Ryan Lasch (2015-16) and Norwegian Mathis Olimb (2014-15).