Defenders
Gustav Forsling — Erik Karlsson
Jonas Brodin — Rasmus Andersson
Defense is probably Sweden’s strongest position, but having only two right-handed shots – Karlsson (Penguins) and Andersson (Calgary Flames) – means at least one lefty will have to play offside. Dahlin (Buffalo Sabers) regularly plays on the right side of the Sabres’ top pair, so placing him next to Hedman (Tampa Bay Lightning) on Sweden’s top pair is an easy decision. Hedman, a six-time finalist for the Norris Trophy awarded to the NHL’s top defenseman six times who won it in 2018, is recovering from elbow surgery but is expected to be back in time for the Olympics and could resume his role as Sweden’s captain in the 4 Nations. Playing with Forsling (Florida Panthers), a Stanley Cup winner the last two seasons, at the 4 Nations brought out the best in Karlsson, a three-time Norris winner (2012, 2015, 2023), so it makes sense to keep this pair together. Brodin (Wild) and Andersson have the potential to form a balanced third pair. Ekman-Larsson (Maple Leafs) also has experience on the right side, so he is another option to do so in Milan if needed.
Goalkeepers
Although pushed at times by Wallstedt for playing with the Wild this season, Gustavsson has recovered from a slow start. This makes him the leading candidate to start Sweden’s Olympic opener. Wallstedt, a 23-year-old rookie, came back down to earth after going 8-0-2 with a 1.74 goals-against average, .944 save percentage and four shutouts in his first 10 starts. After missing the Four Nations Tournament with a knee injury, Markstrom brings valuable experience from 16 seasons in the NHL, although he has been inconsistent this season with the Devils.
