Ex-NHL forward Patrik Berglund reportedly attempting comeback after missing 2021-22 due to serious charges
Former NHL forward Patrik Berglund is reportedly gearing up for a potential comeback in Sweden, according to Aftonbladet.
The 34-year-old had his contract mutually terminated with Brynas IF, a team in the Swedish Hockey League, after he was arrested and detained on charges of assault and rape in May of 2021 following allegations that were brought forward from his ex-girlfriend. In a statement through his lawyer, he denied the allegations. Prior to being arrested, he missed several games late in the 2020-21 season due to COVID-19.
Berglund has been seen skating in Vasteras, his hometown, and Vasteras IK's sport director, Patrik Zetterberg, said that he's willing to sign the former NHLer if he's ready to return. Vasteras IK currently play in HockeyAllsvenskan, the second tier in Sweden.
Note: the following quote is translated from Swedish
"So far, the dialogue about a comeback is not particularly far-fetched." says Zetterberg.
He added, "What it will be and if he is keen to take it a step further, we will see and it is up to him. Should he feel the urge and want to give it a chance, it is clear that we have a dialogue and look into it."
He added, "What it will be and if he is keen to take it a step further, we will see and it is up to him. Should he feel the urge and want to give it a chance, it is clear that we have a dialogue and look into it."
Last year wasn't the first time Berglund had a contract terminated. In 2018, after being traded to the Buffalo Sabres and skating in 23 games for them, Berglund decided he didn't want to play for the organization anymore, has his contract terminated and ultimately returned home to Sweden.
Berglund appeared in 717-career games in his 11-year NHL career, mainly with the St. Louis Blues. In those 717 games, he put up 326 points (170 goals, 156 assists) and had three 20+ goal seasons.
Source: Aftonbladet
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