Observations:

October 2014 – Hjalmarsson has informed the Blue Jackets that he is headed back to Sweden to likely play in the KHL. This news came after being assigned to the club’s AHL affiliate. Chris Bagwell

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June 2014 – HJalmarsson was drafted in 2007 by the St. Louis Blues, but when the time came for the Blues to sign him to a contract or let him go, the let him go. The Columbus Blue Jackets signed the winger to a one-year, two-way contract in early June. Last season, Hjalmarsson was the fourth leading scorer in the SHL. He played for Linkoping and amassed 27 goals and 30 assists in 55 games. He plays a very well-rounded game and is a tremendously hard worker. He’ll get his first taste of North American hockey next year. At 25, Hjalmarsson took his sweet time getting to North America. Now Blue Jackets GM, Jarmo Kekalainen took a chance on him with the Blues organization when they originally drafted him. This second attempt seems to be a better bet. Hjalmarsson is a great two-way player who’s hard to knock off the puck. He plays with a ton of grit which should translate well to professional hockey. Look for him to start the season in the AHL, but play a few games in the NHL. Chris Bagwell

Fantasy Outlook: D

With his decision to return to Sweden, it is unlikely that Hjalmarsson will ever return to North America to pursue an NHL career. 

Footage:

2013-2014 SHL Highlights:  {youtube}a0dEuNhaNBM{/youtube}

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