Montreal Canadiens Make Big Decision With Young Defenseman

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that defenseman Mattias Norlinder will be returning to Frolunda of the Swedish Hockey League for the remainder of the regular season.

Norlinder has been traveling a lot this season to say the least. He appeared in one contest with Frolunda earlier this year, but was held off the scoresheet. In six appearances with the Canadiens, he recorded an assist. Lastly, he even played six games with the Laval Rocket, where he scored a goal and added an assist.

Last week, Norlinder expressed desire to head back home to Sweden for the rest of the year, so it's not too surprising to see it come into fruition. This should help with his development, as he will have the opportunity to play more meaningful minutes from here.

Norlinder suited up in 37 games last season with Frolunda. During them, he scored five goals and had 10 total points. That wasn't bad production at all from him, especially when remembering that it was his first taste of the SHL.

Alas, the 21-year-old should continue to make progress from here. Who knows? Maybe we will see him in Montreal's top six permanently as soon as next season.