Lausanne HC is making headlines as they navigate the thrilling waters of the National League play-off final for the second consecutive year. Currently trailing 2-1 in the series against the formidable ZSC Lions, the team is gearing up for a crucial Game 4 scheduled for Tuesday night, April 22, 2025, at 20:00 in Zurich. Fans at the Vaudoise aréna have plenty to celebrate beyond the immediate action on the ice, as the club has announced significant roster changes that could impact their future.
One of the most exciting developments is the return of 28-year-old goalie Connor Hughes, who is set to rejoin Lausanne HC after a season spent with the Montreal Canadiens in the NHL. Hughes, who played a pivotal role in Lausanne's silver medal run last spring, is expected to form a formidable duo in goal alongside 22-year-old Kevin Pasche. This partnership promises to bolster the team's defensive strategy as they aim for the championship.
However, the arrival of Hughes likely signals the departure of Antoine Keller, whose future with the team appears uncertain. Keller, 20, joined Lausanne last summer but has struggled to find his footing in the lineup and is expected to seek opportunities elsewhere.
In addition to the goaltending shakeup, Lausanne HC has made a significant addition to their defense corps by signing 25-year-old Erik Brännström to a three-season contract. Brännström, who has played 294 NHL games and recorded 77 points with the Ottawa Senators from 2018 to 2024, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the team. This season, he also appeared in 28 games with the Vancouver Canucks, contributing 8 points. Notably, Brännström has previous experience in Switzerland, having played 10 matches for the Langnau Tigers in the 2020-2021 season, where he scored 8 points.
As Lausanne HC faces the ZSC Lions, the team is not only focused on the present but also on building a competitive roster for the future. Lawrence Pilut, another Swedish defenseman aged 29, is expected to be given another chance at the start of the 2025/26 season after an injury-plagued year kept him sidelined. Pilut is eager to prove his worth and secure a permanent spot on the team.
Beyond these key signings, Lausanne HC is also reportedly in discussions with Finnish defender Sami Niku, 28, and American forward Austin Czarnik, 32, both of whom have been heavily linked with the club. Their potential arrivals would further enhance the team's depth and skill set as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the play-off series unfolds, the stakes are high for Lausanne HC. The team has shown resilience and determination, but they will need to dig deep to overcome the ZSC Lions and level the series. With the addition of Hughes and Brännström, the team is positioning itself for both immediate success and long-term growth.
Fans are buzzing with excitement as they await the upcoming match, hoping that the combination of returning talent and new signings will lead to a turnaround against the Lions. The atmosphere at the Vaudoise aréna is sure to be electric as supporters rally behind their team in this critical moment.
The outcome of Game 4 could be pivotal in determining the championship trajectory for Lausanne HC. Will they manage to tie the series and keep their title hopes alive? The answer will unfold on the ice as the players battle for glory.
