When Sweden dropped its roster for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan back in December, the reaction was what you’d expect from a country with hockey running through its veins-plenty of excitement, and just as much debate. With so much top-tier talent to choose from, some tough decisions had to be made.
And one of the more surprising omissions? Edmonton Oilers veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm.
Ekholm’s absence didn’t go unnoticed-especially by Ekholm himself. And frankly, he’s got a case.
For years, he’s been one of the NHL’s most reliable two-way defensemen, a steady presence on the blue line who rarely makes a mistake and consistently plays tough, smart hockey. But now, due to a string of injuries to key players on the Swedish roster, the door might be swinging back open for him.
Let’s break it down.
Sweden’s defensive core took a hit in recent weeks, with three of their veteran NHL blueliners-Victor Hedman, Erik Karlsson, and Jonas Brodin-all dealing with injuries at the worst possible time. And with the Olympic tournament fast approaching, there’s a real chance that at least one of those spots could open up. If that happens, Ekholm is right there, waiting in the wings.
Hedman, 35, has been a rock for the Tampa Bay Lightning for over a decade, but he’s been sidelined since December 11 with an elbow injury that required surgery. While early reports suggested he’d be ready in time for Milan, there’s been little in the way of updates, and with the clock ticking, his status remains murky.
Karlsson, also 35, is dealing with a lower-body injury that was expected to keep him out for a minimum of two weeks as of January 13. He’s already back at practice in a no-contact jersey for the Penguins, which is a good sign. But when it comes to Olympic readiness, it’s still a bit of a wait-and-see situation.
Then there’s Brodin, 32, a shutdown specialist for the Minnesota Wild. He’s been out since January 12 with a lower-body injury, and according to reports, he’s officially out for the Olympics. That’s a tough blow for Sweden, but it also opens the most direct path for Ekholm to slot in.
Stylistically, Ekholm is a natural fit to replace Brodin. Both play a composed, defense-first game, and both excel in tough minutes.
Ekholm’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of player who quietly controls the pace of the game from the back end. He makes the right reads, wins his battles, and moves the puck with purpose.
This season, Ekholm has been doing exactly that for the Oilers. Through 50 games, he’s posted 21 points (three goals, 18 assists), a plus-15 rating, and is averaging just under 21 minutes of ice time per night.
He’s been leaned on heavily in all situations, and he continues to deliver. That kind of consistency is exactly what you want in a high-stakes tournament like the Olympics.
If just one of Hedman or Karlsson isn’t ready to go, Ekholm becomes a logical next man up. If both are sidelined? It’s hard to imagine Sweden not calling his number.
For now, Ekholm remains on the outside looking in. But with the way things are trending, don’t be surprised if he ends up wearing the Tre Kronor in Milan after all. And if he does, expect him to make the most of it-just like he always does.