Building strength does not happen during the NHL/hockey season, that is all done in the off-season. I don't want him in the AHL because then we'll have to hear about every single hot streak (#Freelander) and every cold streak (#Bustlander) from the media mouth breathers.
The scuttlebutt would certainly be annoying, but ultimately I don't think it should matter. Either AHL or Sweden would be fine, but I'd prefer AHL. Better to be in the organization where Dubas and co. can keep a close eye. Wouldn't mind giving him 9 games either -- not sure whether it should be at the start of the season though.