Photo: Färjestad BK via Twitter
Former Washington Capitals center Michael Latta is moving on to other things in the hockey world. He recently spent last season with the Kunlun Red Star of the Kontinental Hockey League in Beijing, China. Now, Latta is playing in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) after signing with Färjestad BK.
The Kitchener, Ontario, native spoke to Swedish media on Monday. Latta was asked what he can bring to the team. Playing on different teams in different leagues (NHL, AHL, KHL) has given him a lot of experience. Latta wants to bring a work ethic and play hard every game. He looks forward to the challenge and is eager to help the team “win any way he can”.
Not sure what this says, but excited to be here!! https://t.co/BeAyY2qwrC
— Michael Latta (@Latta17) November 18, 2019
Another former Capital, Marcus Johansson, played for Färjestad BK before he was drafted by Washington in the 2009 NHL Draft. The current Buffalo Sabres forward talked to Latta on the way there and expressed how “it’s a great organization” and how much Latta is going to love it. The city of Karlstad “goes crazy” for the team. “…Hearing that from him really made me a lot more excited,” Latta commented.
Johansson’s brother, Martin, also plays for Färjestad. Latta said he messaged Marcus to “make sure he [Martin] looks after me”. He looks forward to playing with him and joked, “Hopefully he’s a little cooler than Jojo.”
Latta is not sure when he will officially be able to get on the ice; paperwork still needs to be completed. Prior to coming to Sweden, he spent time with his college team in Canada, giving him time to skate and work out. Latta said, “I’m really just excited actually playing in some competition soon.” He is thrilled to be with Färjestad and to get to work.
In 51 games with the Kunlun Red Star, he picked up 5 goals, 15 points, and 71 penalty minutes.
In 113 games with the Capitals, Latta posted 4 goals, 17 points, and 130 penalty minutes.
Video interview with Latta is here.
By Della Young
