Hockey

Sebastian Aho Joins Växjö Lakers After Stint with Islanders and Penguins

by
William Caldwell
June 14, 2026

Former New York Islanders defenseman Sebastian Aho is embarking on a new chapter in his career, having signed a two-year contract with the Växjö Lakers of the Swedish Hockey League. The 30-year-old defenseman made the move after his contract with the Islanders ended following the 2023-24 season, a time when he had hoped to return to the team. Unfortunately, that reunion did not materialize.

Aho was originally selected by the Islanders in the 2017 NHL Draft, going 139th overall. Over the course of his tenure with the team from 2017 to 2024, he played in 190 NHL games, contributing 11 goals and 39 assists for a total of 50 points. His time in the NHL also included a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he signed a two-year, one-way deal valued at $1.55 million AAV. However, he never made an appearance in a regular-season game for the Penguins.

During his time with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the AHL across the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, Aho showcased his skills by notching two goals and 26 assists for 28 points. He also added one assist in 10 playoff games, highlighting his ability to contribute in crucial moments.

With his new contract with the Växjö Lakers, Aho is set to remain in Sweden through the 2027-28 season, looking to make a significant impact in the Swedish Hockey League as he continues his professional journey.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.

William Caldwell

William Caldwell is a veteran journalist whose career has spanned the highs and lows of the sports world. With a focus on baseball and hockey, William’s articles are known for their depth and historical perspective, making him a favorite among fans who appreciate the rich traditions of sports. Outside the press box, William is an amateur historian with a particular interest in sports memorabilia.