Former Oiler Makes Team Sweden, Ekholm Left Off Olympic Roster
Team Sweden has announced its roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, and the selection has stirred considerable debate, particularly among Edmonton Oilers fans. While the roster boasts a strong contingent of NHL stars, the omission of Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm has raised eyebrows, especially considering the inclusion of former Oiler Philip Broberg.
Broberg, currently with the St. Louis Blues, earned a spot on the team, seemingly at the expense of Ekholm. This decision is somewhat surprising, given Ekholm's extensive experience and consistent performance in the NHL. Ekholm, a seasoned veteran of 925 NHL games, has been a reliable presence on the Oilers' blue line since being traded to Edmonton in February 2023. In his second season with the Oilers, the 35-year-old posted impressive stats, including 45 points (11 goals, 34 assists) and a team-leading plus-44 rating. He also played a key role in the playoffs, averaging 21:57 of ice time and even scoring in three consecutive games during the Western Conference Second Round against the Vancouver Canucks.
Broberg, on the other hand, has established himself as a solid top-four defenseman for the Blues, logging significant ice time and contributing effectively in all zones. While Broberg's emergence as a reliable NHL defenseman is commendable, Ekholm's experience and consistent performance led many to believe he was a lock for the Olympic roster.
The Swedish roster includes a blend of offensive and defensive talent. Veteran players such as Gabriel Landeskog, Erik Karlsson, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, all of whom participated in the 2014 Olympics, bring experience to the team. The forward lines are stacked with stars like William Nylander, Leo Carlsson, and Elias Pettersson, promising a potent offensive attack. Other notable defensemen include Rasmus Andersson, Jonas Brodin, Rasmus Dahlin, Gustav Forsling, and Victor Hedman. The goaltending duties will be handled by Filip Gustavsson, Jacob Markstrom, and Jesper Wallstedt.
Several other players who participated in the 4 Nations Face-Off, such as Gustav Nyquist, William Karlsson, and Viktor Arvidsson, were also left off the final Olympic roster. Landeskog, Alexander Wennberg, and Pontus Holmberg are among those who were not at the 4 Nations Face-Off but are on the Olympic squad.
Team Sweden will begin their Olympic campaign against host nation Italy on February 11. They will then face Finland on February 13 and Slovakia on February 14. Sweden is aiming for its third Olympic gold medal and tenth overall Olympic medal.
