Introducing Johan Backlund

Why did you decide to accept an offer from Slovan? Did you also have any other offers?

I had a couple of offers after the end of my contract at Vityaz Podolsk. Slovan gave me a very serious offer and it was the best choice for me. I rembember the games against Slovan last season. The game in Slovnaft Arena was sold out, fans cheered all 60 minutes. The whole club looks like a perfect and professional organisation. Also, Bratislava is a really nice city.  All these facts helped me in taking decision about my new club. I am really looking forward to being a part of Slovan next season. 

Do you know any players from HC SLOVAN team?

I do know some players but not personally. I remember that a Swedish player Joseph Boumedienne had played for Slovan for most of the 2012/2013 season. I have to admit I asked him to give me some information about the team. He had told me only good things about the team and the city and recommended me to sign a contract. 

When will you come to Bratislava? Will you be staying here on your won during the season?

I will arrive in Bratislava at the beginning of July. I’ll be there just myself for the start of the season. A little later into the season, my girlfriend plans to come and join me in staying here for the rest of the season. 

Have you already started your preparations?

Yes, I have. I am working hard, I want to be in an excellent physical condition at the beginning of July.  I always start my preparations soon after the end of the season to keep my body in good shape. 

Seven years ago – in 2007 - you were in the net at the IIHF World Championship quarterfinals game against Slovakia? Do you remember this game?

Oh yeah (smiling). It was quite a long time ago. I remember we won 7:4 and advanced to the semifinals. You had a pretty good team at the 2007 World Champs and we were pleased that we had been able to win. Unfortunately for us, it was our last victory at the tournament, then we finished at the fourth place without a medal.  

Was this the best season in your career so far?

Yes, I think  the 2006/2007 was my best season overall.  I played in NHL, World Champs and was able to stay healthy for the whole season. I’ve got great memories for this season.

What are your memories for NHL?

I am very happy that I was also able to try playing in NHL. I was a starting goalie in just one and only game, nevertheless it was a great experience! However, for most of my career in the United States, I was a part of the affiliation team. Later I have decided to go back to Europe to reach a little more icetime as a starting goaltender.

How would you rate your last season in Podolsk?

Quite frankly, it wasn’t a good season for me at all. I didn’t play in too many games because I had been injured. Lisutin – my fellow goalie in the team – had performed really well so I had found it very difficult to go back to the net after injuries. However, I tried to get a lesson from this situation. I am healthy now, feel good and I’ll do my best for Slovan in the next KHL season! 

Do you remember the two games against Slovan last season?

Yes. It was a really good atmosphere during the game in Bratislava. As I said your fans are just brilliant! We played a really good game in Bratislava last September. We were able to deliver for the whole 60 minutes and won 4:1 so I’ve got only good memories. Ironically, although I haven’t started in many games last season, I had been in the net for Vityaz in the game at Podolsk in January, as well. Slovan won 3:2 after shootouts. Particularly, I remember Miro Satan who scored in the shootout against me. 

What are your expectations for the next KHL season?

KHL is a very quality league with excellent skaters and goalies. Every year, all the teams are very strong and their only goal is to make the play off. I do have experience from several hockey leagues now, KHL including. So I know what to expect from other teams in KHL. I just hope that I’ll use it for Slovan. I want to help the team and be often in the net. I want to help win many games and advance to the play off.

If you should characterize yourself, what type of goalie you are?

I’m kind of a mixture between the so-called old school and the modern style of goalie. I try to read the game as well, have good reflexes and speed movements in the net.