Dick Axelsson makes hockey comeback 18 years after Detroit Red Wings disappointment
Eighteen years after being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings, Dick Axelsson is making a surprising return to professional hockey.
At 37, the veteran Swedish left-winger has signed with Djurgarden in the Allsvenskan, Sweden's second division, reigniting a career that saw him step away from the ice twice. Axelsson, a two-time SHL champion and former Elitserien All-Star, previously played for Djurgarden from 2007-09 and 2018-22. His journey with the Red Wings, however, was far from successful.
Drafted 62nd overall in 2006, Axelsson struggled with confidence and language barriers during his brief stint in North America, leading to an early exit from the NHL and a suspension by the Red Wings. Reflecting on his time with Detroit, Axelsson recalls feeling out of place and overwhelmed, ultimately deciding to return to Sweden. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, Axelsson looks to make the most of his third act in hockey, proving that it's never too late to rewrite one's story on the ice.
Source: Yardbarker
Onetime Red Wings Prospect Making Comeback
Source: Hockeydb
Dick Axelsson
| POLL | ||
What do you think about Dick Axelsson's hockey comeback at 37? | ||
| It's inspiring to see him return to the ice | 5 | 20.8 % |
| He should have stayed retired | 11 | 45.8 % |
| I'm curious to see how he performs in Sweden | 8 | 33.3 % |
| It's a smart move by Djurgarden | 0 | 0 % |
| List of polls | ||
