Dresden Ice Lions: Former NHL star Bouma should now score goals!

Dresden Ice Lions: Former NHL star Bouma should now score goals!

The Dresden Ice Lions have landed a real coup: With Lance Bouma, the traditional club has signed an experienced NHL player. The 35-year-old Canadian brings a wealth of experience from over 350 NHL games, where he was on the ice for the Calgary Flames and Chicago Blackhawks. In his appearances, Bouma scored 30 goals and contributed 46 assists, making him a valuable addition to the Ice Lions. Bouma has been active in Sweden for the last two years, most recently for the first division club Linköping HC, before he has now decided to switch to German ice hockey.

Why Dresden? Bouma appreciates the club's ambitions and the opportunity to play an active role in shaping the team. “I have seen the structure of the ice lions and find it exciting to make a difference here,” he explains. Sports director Matthias Roos emphasizes that Bouma was brought in not only because of his offensive qualities, but also because of his defensive abilities. He is primarily expected to take on a more attacking role after his statistics in Sweden failed to reach the levels expected from a player of his experience, with just 20 goal involvements in 92 games. Bouma became the fourth new signing after Julius Hudacek, Justin Braun and Trevor Parkes to become the focus of the Ice Lions [Bild] reports that...

The ice lions on the rise

It cannot be overlooked that the Dresden Ice Lions are pursuing ambitious goals in the coming season. Bouma, with his impressive CV, fits ideally into the club's philosophy. Roos emphasizes that hard work, cleverness and presence in all zones are Bouma's key skills. These characteristics should not only keep the Ice Lions in the top third of the table, but also translate into dangerous offensive actions. Bouma will therefore become a central part of the team and can act as a leader.

In total, there are 52 professional teams in the DEL, the highest German league, that are fighting for the championship. The Ice Lions are eager to not only keep up in this highly competitive environment, but also to consolidate their place at the top. Bouma will certainly play a key role in identifying crucial points this season, as the Eislöwen aim to develop further compared to last season [Sportschau] reports that...

A look at the leagues

The DEL, DEL2, OLS and OLN are the four central leagues of German professional ice hockey. Over 3,600 active players, including around 1,300 professionals, demonstrate the high level and competitive spirit in this sport. It's good to know that young talents are also supported, with special regulations that came into force from the 2020/21 season. There is a requirement for at least two sponsored players from the younger age groups. These dynamic conditions could also illustrate Bouma's influence on the team's development [Ice Hockey Statistics] reports that...

The Dresden Ice Lions are clearly committed to renewal and see Lance Bouma as the ideal solution to bring a breath of fresh air into the team. The coming season promises to be exciting - both for Bouma and for the Ice Lions' loyal fans.