As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina approach, anticipation builds around the composition of the competing teams, especially powerhouses like Sweden. After finishing fourth in the 2022 Beijing Olympics, the Swedes are aiming for a medal, and with NHL players returning to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014, their roster is expected to be ultra-talented.
Forwards Sweden's forward lineup is expected to be a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Names like Jesper Bratt, Leo Carlsson, William Eklund, and Lucas Raymond represent the new wave of Swedish hockey. Veteran players such as Filip Forsberg, Gabriel Landeskog, Elias Lindholm, William Nylander, Elias Pettersson, and Mika Zibanejad are likely to bring experience and leadership to the team. Other possible additions include Joel Eriksson Ek, William Karlsson, Adrian Kempe, and Rickard Rakell. One notable inclusion is Gabriel Landeskog, the Colorado Avalanche captain, whose return from a significant knee injury was celebrated throughout the league. The fact that Landeskog was named in the initial six shows the faith that he will be a part of their Olympic team.
Defensemen The defense is likely to be anchored by stars such as Rasmus Andersson, Jonas Brodin, Rasmus Dahlin, and Victor Hedman. Mattias Ekholm, Gustav Forsling, Erik Karlsson, and Hampus Lindholm could round out the defensive corps, providing a blend of size, skill, mobility, and experience. One notable absence from some projections is Rasmus Andersson, who was scratched in Sweden’s first two games at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Goaltenders Sweden boasts impressive depth in goal, with several strong contenders for the three roster spots. Linus Ullmark, who won the Vezina Trophy in 2023, and Jacob Markstrom are considered strong candidates. Filip Gustavsson is another excellent option, making the competition for the starting role intense.
Overall, the projected roster showcases Sweden's blend of established stars, promising young talents, and veteran leaders. While some believe that Sweden might not be as deep as teams like the United States and Canada, they are undoubtedly among the second tier of contenders, alongside Russia, Finland, and the Czech Republic. The team's performance at the 4 Nations Face-Off, where they didn't lose a game in regulation but still finished third, has fueled their determination to improve and contend for a medal in 2026. With a potent offense, a solid defense, and excellent goaltending options, Sweden has the potential to repeat their 2006 success and bring home another Olympic gold medal.
