NHL players will once again have the opportunity to compete for Olympic gold, as Sweden prepares for the Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo games in Italy, beginning February 11, 2026. The deadline for submitting 25-man official rosters is December 31, 2025. Already, six players have been revealed for Team Sweden, with notable names including Rasmus Dahlin, Victor Hedman, Adrian Kempe, Gabriel Landeskog, William Nylander, and Lucas Raymond.
When it comes to goaltending, Sweden has a strong lineup to choose from. The likely trio will consist of Jacob Markstrom, Linus Ullmark, and Filip Gustavsson. Markstrom, despite facing injury issues early in the season, is now back playing for the New Jersey Devils and recently signed a two-year contract extension. He boasts valuable international experience, having played 45 games for Sweden and winning gold at the World Championships in 2013. Ullmark, who has represented Sweden in 11 games, played most recently in the 4 Nations Face-off earlier this year, though he’s currently struggling with a 3.21 goals-against average and an .870 save percentage in 14 games with the Ottawa Senators. Should any injuries arise, options like Arvid Soderblom and Samuel Ersson will be considered.
For the defense, Sweden has a wealth of talent, likely bringing eight defensemen to the tournament. Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins will be a strong contender for the roster, along with established defenders such as Hedman and Dahlin. Potential defensive pairings could include:
– Victor Hedman (TB) – Rasmus Dahlin (BUF)
– Oliver Ekman-Larsson (TOR) – Erik Karlsson (PIT)
– Philip Broberg (STL) – Rasmus Andersson (CGY)
– Gustav Forsling (FLA) – Adam Larsson (SEA)
Despite some setbacks, including Dahlin’s recent leave of absence from the Buffalo Sabres and Hedman’s injury, both players are expected to recover in time for the Olympics. Other names like Rasmus Sandin, Hampus Lindholm, Mattias Ekholm, and Jonas Brodin could also be in contention for a roster spot.
In terms of forwards, Sweden has a plethora of options, led by Leo Carlsson of the Anaheim Ducks, who is currently excelling with 11 goals and 26 points this season. Team Sweden could potentially field forward lines such as:
– Adrian Kempe (LAK) – Elias Pettersson (VAN) – William Nylander (TOR)
– Jesper Bratt (NJD) – Joel Eriksson Ek (MIN) – Filip Forsberg (NAS)
– Gabriel Landeskog (COL) – Elias Lindholm (BOS) – Lucas Raymond (DET)
– Victor Olofsson (COL) – Mikael Backlund (CGY) – Mika Zibanejad (NYR)
The inclusion of seasoned player Mikael Backlund may raise eyebrows due to his age, yet his solid defensive play for the Calgary Flames highlights his value.
Historically, Sweden boasts an impressive record in international hockey, with 49 total medals, including 11 gold championships. Their most recent gold came in 2018 at the World Championships. Sweden’s Olympic journey will kick off against host nation Italy on February 11, and fans are eagerly anticipating their performance on the world stage.