Key Highlights
- Rasmus Dahlin and Victor Hedman are among the six previously revealed players for Team Sweden.
- Jacob Markstrom, Linus Ullmark, and Filip Gustavsson are almost certain to be included as goaltenders.
- The team has experienced some key setbacks with Rasmus Dahlin and Victor Hedman injured.
- Adrian Kempe, William Nylander, and Lucas Raymond lead the forward projections.
Team Sweden Preparing for 2026 Winter Olympics
The roster for Team Sweden in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics is shaping up to be a powerhouse of NHL talent. The first time since 2014 that NHL players will represent their country, the Swedish team is expected to field a strong lineup ready to compete for gold.
Goaltenders
The selection in goal is highly anticipated, with three goaltenders almost guaranteed spots on the roster. Jacob Markstrom, who has represented Sweden in 45 games and won gold at the World Championships in 2013, is back after a battle with injury early in the season. Linus Ullmark, known for his recent performance with the Ottawa Senators, could also secure a spot despite his less impressive early-season statistics.
Other potential goaltender options include Arvid Soderblom and Samuel Ersson, though their inclusion is less certain as of now.
Defence Projections
The defence is another area where Sweden has plenty of depth. Despite injuries to key players like Rasmus Dahlin and Victor Hedman, the team still has several strong options. Erik Karlsson from the Pittsburgh Penguins could be a standout player if selected.
Pairings such as Victor Hedman with Rasmus Dahlin and Oliver Ekman-Larsson with Erik Karlsson are considered potential candidates.
Other defence contenders include Philip Broberg, Rasmus Andersson, Gustav Forsling, and Adam Larsson. The team is expected to bring eight defencemen in total.
Forwards
The forward lineups are equally star-studded with NHL talent. Adrian Kempe from the Los Angeles Kings leads the charge alongside William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Lucas Raymond from Detroit. Other notable forwards include Jesper Bratt, Joel Eriksson Ek, Gabriel Landeskog, and Mikael Backlund.
Leo Carlsson, despite his 36 years of age, could make a surprising inclusion based on his recent contributions to the Anaheim Ducks.
Tournament Overview
The tournament is set to begin on February 11, 2026. Sweden has a rich history in international hockey with 49 total medals and two gold medal championships. Their most recent victory came at the 2018 World Championships.
Team Sweden’s journey starts against Italy, their host nation for this year’s event. The team is expected to have a full roster by New Year’s Eve to ensure they are ready for competition.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo promises to be an exciting showcase of hockey talent from around the world, with Team Sweden aiming high once again.
