Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s Ironman Season Earns Olympic Nod - and a Chance to Chase Gold One More Time
Oliver Ekman-Larsson isn’t just logging heavy minutes on the blue line for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season - he’s quietly putting together one of the most impressive campaigns of his career. At 34, he’s not only been a steadying veteran presence, but also one of the team’s most durable players, suiting up for every single game so far in the 2025-26 season. Only John Tavares shares that distinction with him in Toronto’s lineup.
It hasn’t been without its bumps. Ekman-Larsson’s had a couple of close calls with injuries this year, but each time, he’s bounced back quickly - showing the kind of resilience that’s earned him both the respect of his teammates and a spot on Sweden’s roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
And make no mistake, this Olympic selection means something a little extra. It could be his last shot at international glory.
“My teammates, myself gave me the best chance to be on that team,” Ekman-Larsson said. “So, I’m very thankful for that.”
That quote says a lot about where he’s at right now - a veteran who understands how much of this game is about the people around you. Yes, his play has been strong, but he’s quick to credit the group effort in Toronto that’s helped him thrive.
Ekman-Larsson’s offensive production is on pace to be among the best of his career, but what really stands out is his consistency. Night in and night out, he’s been there. And now, he’ll take that momentum into the Olympics, where he’ll wear the yellow and blue for Sweden - a jersey that still stirs up childhood memories.
“I think that’s one memory I have as a young kid, I was so happy I cried,” Ekman-Larsson said, reflecting on Sweden’s gold medal run in 2006. “Obviously what that team and those players meant for hockey in Sweden, that’s very special.
So, that’s something in my mind that I always kind of reflect on. I grew up idolizing those guys and watching them play.”
There’s a full-circle feel to this moment. A kid watching his heroes win gold. Now, a veteran with a chance to chase that same dream, maybe for the last time.
Ekman-Larsson believes in the group Sweden is sending to the Games - not just in terms of talent, but in mindset.
“I think we always have a good chance to do something special,” he said. “I know all the guys that wear that yellow and blue shirt want to do good. I think everybody knows what we expect out of each other, and it’s going to be a lot of fun to go over there and play with those guys.”
The Olympic opening ceremony takes place on February 6. While some NHLers will head to the Games with fresh legs after a break, Ekman-Larsson won’t have that luxury.
But that doesn’t seem to bother him. He’s embracing the grind, grateful for the opportunity, and ready to give everything he’s got for his country - just as he’s done all season long for the Leafs.
For Ekman-Larsson, this isn’t just another tournament. It’s a chance to add one more chapter to a career defined by leadership, longevity, and love for the game.