The Milan-Cortina Olympics were a rollercoaster for New York Rangers star Mika Zibanejad. Back in New York, he's still processing the whirlwind of emotions from representing Sweden on the grandest stage.
Zibanejad shone brightly, leading Sweden with three goals in five games and finishing second in points with six, just behind Lucas Raymond of the Detroit Red Wings. His performance was a testament to his skill and determination.
But the journey was bittersweet, ending with a heart-wrenching 2-1 overtime loss to the United States in the quarterfinals. Zibanejad scored Sweden's final goal, a signature one-time blast that tied the game late in the third period. Yet, it was Quinn Hughes' overtime goal that dashed Sweden's dreams, propelling the U.S. to gold.
Reflecting on the experience, Zibanejad shared, “Tough ending, obviously. It was really exciting for the people watching, but it still stings. Tying it up late and having the chance to win it in overtime, and then going through that, it’s a tough one to swallow.”
Returning to New York, Zibanejad is back with the Rangers, who are gearing up to face the Philadelphia Flyers. Despite the disappointment, the Olympics left a lasting impression. Representing Sweden in the Olympics was a different experience for the 32-year-old, who has donned the Tre Kronor in various international tournaments before.
“You really notice how important every game is,” he explained, highlighting the intensity of Olympic competition. Sweden's journey was marked by a tough loss to Finland in the prelims, a victory over Latvia in the qualifiers, and the showdown with the U.S.
“I’m still proud to have the opportunity to play in the Olympics and represent your country,” Zibanejad said, cherishing the chance after a 12-year NHL absence from the Games. “The more time that will pass by, I think it’ll be easier to look back at it in a different way.”
Zibanejad also expressed joy for his Rangers teammates J.T. Miller and Vincent Trocheck, and coach Mike Sullivan, who were part of the U.S. team that claimed gold.
“I’m happy for them. I’m happy they got to experience that joy,” he said.
“It makes it easier to lose to them in the quarters and then they go through to the finals and win the whole thing.”
Watching the U.S. triumph over Canada in the gold-medal game, Zibanejad noted, “It was an unbelievable game and a fun one to watch. A lot of excitement.
A lot of chances and a good advertisement for hockey.” His reflections capture the essence of a tournament that was both a personal milestone and a showcase of hockey at its finest.