EXCLUSIVE: Meet Capitals Prospect Aron Dahlqvist, A Shutdown Defenseman Who Loves Big Hits & 'Playing Tough'

Washington Capitals sixth-round pick Aron Dahlqvist sits down with DC Backcheck to discuss his game, path to D.C. and what the year holds with Brynäs IF.

ARLINGTON, V.A. — Looking back, Washington Capitals prospect Aron Dahlqvist didn’t like hockey at first. In fact, he tried to quit.

When he was young, his father had dragged him to the rink in his hometown of Gavlë, Sweden, and Dahlqvist didn’t think it was his calling.

“I think it was because I fell too much,” he laughed.

It didn’t take long, though, for him to go back to the rink. After all, he’d watched his hometown hero, Nicklas Backstrom, cement his legacy as one of the best Swedes to play in the NHL, and like the other kids, he wanted to emulate No. 19.

So Dahlqvist got back on the ice, and once he was put on defense, he never looked back.

“I mean, it’s fun,” he grinned. “Yeah, hit people and play tough. I always liked it.”

Dahlqvist worked his way up the ranks with Brynäs IF, and this past season, made the jump from the U20 team to the SHL, the top flight of hockey back home. Playing against grown men, the 18-year-old made his mark with his defensive play, hard hits and gritty style.

“I mean, it’s the highest level… it’s cool to be there, and I think it’s good for me,” Dahlqvist said.

Washington took Dahlqvist in the sixth round, 180th overall in this draft. He stood out at development camp with his skating and skill, and he’s looking forward to continuing to grow his game.

As he looks to make noise back with Brynäs this upcoming season, where he could play with Backstrom after all, Dahlqvist will continue to try to be the stay-at-home, shutdown blueliner that punishes his opponents, kills penalties and breaks up plays.

“I’m a defensive defenseman. Big, play hard, play tough,” he said. “Keep it simple.”