Ekholm omission from Olympic roster ‘tough’ decision for Sweden, coach says
NHL.com••sports
Key Points:
- Team Sweden announced its roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics, with 18 players returning from the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, but veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm was notably excluded.
- Coach Sam Hallam described the decision to leave out Ekholm, who is 35 and considered this his last Olympic chance, as difficult but based on what was best for the team, highlighting the strength of Sweden's defense core.
- The roster includes younger defenseman Philip Broberg, formerly of the Edmonton Oilers and now with the St. Louis Blues, praised for his strong performance and mobility, contrasting with Ekholm's omission.
- Other notable additions who did not play in the 4 Nations include Oliver Ekman-Lar
