Team lineup for the Lancer de peluches clash
The Lions, under the guidance of head coach Geoff Ward and his staff, have announced their roster for the sixth National League game of the season against EHC Kloten. This match doubles as the popular Lancer de peluches charity event, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans and players alike. The lineup is designed to balance scoring touch, depth, and defensive reliability as the team aims to extend its run in this marquee Swiss showdown.
Forwards
1st line: Drake Caggiula / Austin Czarnik / Théo Rochette
2nd line: Dominik Kahun / Antti Suomela / Damien Riat
3rd line: Yannick Zehnder / Ken Jäger / Jason Fuchs
4th line: Floran Douay / Benjamin Bougro / Raphael Prassl
Across the four forward lines, the coaching staff looks to combine veteran experience with young speed. Caggiula and Czarnik bring scoring instincts and playmaking, while Rochette provides energy and a timely finishing touch. The mix of Kahun, Suomela, and Riat should offer creative options in transition, with Zehnder, Jäger, and Fuchs providing grit and versatility to sustain offensive pressure against Kloten’s defense.
Defence
1st pair: Erik Brännström / Fabian Heldner
2nd pair: Sami Niku / Iñaki Baragano
3rd pair: Aurélien Marti / Basile Sansonnens
7th defenseman: Gael Haas / Nathan Vouardoux
The defensive corps combines puck-moving threats with solid two-way players. Brännström and Heldner are trusted to drive play and manage tempo, while Niku and Baragano add size and reliability on the back end. Marti and Sansonnens form a mobile pairing capable of breaking out quickly, and Haas along with Vouardoux serves as a versatile seventh option, ready to slot into different matchups as needed.
Goalies
Starter: Kevin Pasche (Connor Hughes as backup)
Pasche is tasked with stabilizing the crease and commanding confidence in front of him. Backing him up is Connor Hughes, offering a reliable option should a relief appearance be required. The duo provides experience and calm under pressure as the team aims to protect leads and keep Kloten at bay.
Absentees
Unavailable for selection are Michael Hügli, Makai Holdener, Ahti Oksanen, and Cedric Fiedler. Their absence opens opportunities for others to step up and contribute in key moments, especially as the team balances the charity night’s unique atmosphere with the rigors of a National League contest.
Why this lineup matters for fans and the charity night
Beyond the tactical setup, the Lancer de peluches event adds a community-focused dimension to the game. The selected roster emphasizes depth and flexibility, giving Ward the tools to adapt to Kloten’s lineup and in-game adjustments. For fans, the mix of proven scorers, playmakers, and sturdy defenders promises an engaging game with competitive play and a sense of camaraderie that comes with a charitable night.
Looking ahead to puck drop
With a balanced forward corps, a guardful of defense partners, and a dependable crease, the Lions enter the match prepared to seize momentum early. As the action unfolds, fans will be watching not only for goals and saves but also for how the team negotiates the special atmosphere of the Lancer de peluches evening—in which fans rally to support a meaningful cause while enjoying top-level National League hockey.
