Viktor Lodin brings scoring touch at perfect time

Viktor Lodin didn’t wait to have a major impact on his new club. The 22-year-old native of Leksand, Sweden, scored his first career AHL goal on a penalty shot with an impressive move that not only wowed his teammates but helped them earn a key two points in their quest for a Calder Cup playoff berth. Not content to strike just once, Lodin has racked up three points (2G, 1A) in his first six games. All told, he has figured prominently on Belleville’s current four-game winning streak.

“He’s a guy who can make a difference in a game with one shot,” Senators head coach Troy Mann said. “He got a penalty shot and scored on it in Rochester, and then he gets a goal-scorers goal in Utica that maybe doesn’t go in for other guys. He’s contributing already, and it’s great to see. He’ll be an important factor for us down the stretch.”

No stranger to big games, Lodin is a clutch performer and relishes high-pressure matchups. The self-described power-forward has just come off several big games at home over the last two seasons. After guiding Timra IK to an Allsvenskan league title and promotion to the SHL last season, he aided his team in staving off relegation to a low tier earlier this month.

The Belleville Senators certainly have use for a gamer like Lodin as they face nothing but crucial divisional games in the coming days as they look to put more distance between themselves and their competitors for a Calder Cup playoff berth.

With four games left on the regular-season schedule, Belleville’s recent run of success has them in control of their own destiny, and Lodin believes he can use his recent experiences to help his new team clinch a spot in the postseason.

“Those were some tough games, mentally and on the ice. Of course, I can bring that experience. I played in the playoffs last year. I know what it’s all about. I’m just going to work hard and do my best to create chances to help us offensively.”

“It’s tight here. We’re battling hard with the teams in our division, and I’m just going to do my best to help the team make the playoffs.”

Lodin says it was an easy decision to join the Senators for their final stretch drive after his SHL season concluded. The skilled left-winger knows how vital experience will be when he attempts to make a permanent transition to North America next year.

“I felt right away that I wanted to come over and play and meet all the guys and the team staff and coaches, so I’m a little bit more comfortable when I come over next year.”

There’s no question, that Lodin’s experience, scoring touch and positive outlook will all be significant assets this year and next as he advances his career.

Submitted by: Joel Vanderlaan / @JoelVanderlaan