Sweden delights in Worlds
Sweden delights in Worlds
Consistently world class performances


The most consistent nation at this event over the last three decades, “Sweden” and “semi-finals” are words that belong in every top-level hockey discussion. This year should be no different given the team’s depth and hockey pedigree.
Goal
Jhonas Enroth was the goalie in 2013 when Sweden won gold on home ice, and he will be the number-one man coming into Prague. He has the distinction of having won a medal at U18, U20, and WM, and he was part of the Olympic roster that won silver in Sochi (although he didn’t play). He gives the team a chance to win every time he plays.
Defence
Like Canada, Sweden has a great mix of youth and experience on the blue line. In the case of the former, think two rising NHL stars—Oscar Klefbom (Edmonton) and Oliver Ekman Larsson (Arizona). In the case of the latter, think Staffan Kronwall (KHL) and Johan Fransson (SUI). These studs know the Swedish system so well they can step into the lineup any time and gel. That will be one key for the team, knowing it doesn’t need a lot of time to adjust.
Forward
The name Forsberg elicits deep sighs of admiration, and although he isn’t “Foppa” just yet, Filip Forsberg had a breakout year with Nashville in the NHL and is poised to be a superstar for that league and for Tre Kronor for years to come. Although he is only 20, playing in his first senior World Championship, he is to be counted on for goals and inspirational play. Loui Eriksson is also going to be relied upon for offence. Joel Lundqvist is in his sixth Worlds, and has two gold medals to show for his past successes. Elias Lindholm is another 20-year-old who is coming off an impressive second season with Carolina during which he doubled his point totals from his rookie season. Tre Kronor has plenty of scoring ability, yet offence might actually be the so-called weakest part of the team.
Continue readingCoaching
Par Marts has coached Sweden eight times at three levels and won a medal every time but one. He brings three medals from the U20, an Olympic silver from Sochi, and a gold from 2013 WM at home in Stockholm. This is his fifth World Championship. He has the experience. He has the system. He has the respect of the players.
Projected Results
In the last 28 years Sweden has won a medal 21 times and failed to get to the semi-finals only three times. Although not quite as impressive as other years, the nation is too good not to get as far this year, so it’s a matter of what colour, not if the team will win a medal.
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