Rasmus Andersson, the defenseman for the Vegas Golden Knights, is poised to represent Sweden at the Winter Olympics for the first time when the team faces Italy in Milan this Wednesday. Despite limited international experience, Andersson is eager to step onto the Olympic ice and contribute to a team known for its defensive depth.
Last year, Andersson appeared in one game for Sweden during the 4 Nations Face-Off and also participated in the IIHF World Championships. These outings have laid a foundation for him, even though he hasn’t played internationally since 2016 before that.
It was the time of my life,
Andersson said.
It’s so fun every time I’ve (worn the Sweden jersey),
he added.
I love it. Every time I’ve done it, because I had such a long break between it — almost 10 years — you almost forget that feeling.
A Fortified Swedish Defensive Lineup
Andersson is expected to receive significant ice time, skating alongside Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman on Sweden’s second defensive pairing. This complements a Swedish blue line that includes some of the world’s top defense talents, such as Rasmus Dahlin and Gustav Forsling on the top pairing, and Philip Broberg and Erik Karlsson filling out the depth chart.
The defensive roster is regarded as one of Sweden’s greatest assets in the tournament. Andersson acknowledges the strength of Sweden’s defense while also noting stiff competition from other countries.
I think, maybe, the U.S. has a really good blue line, as well,
he said.
I think definitely Sweden is up there.
Adding to Sweden’s strength is goaltender Filip Gustavsson, one of the tournament’s premier netminders, and a forward group that emphasizes a strong two-way game. Even Gabriel Landeskog, Sweden’s captain who has faced injuries, plays on the fourth line, showcasing the team’s depth.
I think with Sweden, I feel like we’re deep in every position,
Andersson remarked.
We might not have the Jack (Eichels) or (Connor) McDavids and the (Nathan) MacKinnons, but I feel like we’re deep. I feel like we’re good at all positions, really.
Transitioning from the NHL to Olympic Competition
Since being acquired by the Vegas Golden Knights from the Calgary Flames on January 18, Andersson has adjusted quickly, recording four points and a plus-3 rating in eight games. Compared to his time with the Knights, his two practices with Team Sweden have provided valuable preparation ahead of the Olympics.
Knights coach Bruce Cassidy praised Andersson’s abilities.
He should make us a better team. That’s why you make these trades,
Cassidy explained.
He’s a good puck mover. Puck movement has been good for us, but not consistently good. He should add to that element of our game.
During the 4 Nations Face-Off, Andersson spent time in the press box for Sweden’s narrow 4-3 overtime loss to Canada. Despite not playing, he was impressed by the high pace of the game, which he felt was exceptional even for an NHL-level matchup.
Usually the game looks slow from (the press box), but it was pretty fast from up there,
Andersson recalled about the Canada game.
I couldn’t even imagine what it was on the ice. It was probably the best game I’ve ever watched live.
Upcoming Matchups and Expectations in Milan
Sweden faces host country Italy to open its Olympic schedule, with subsequent games against formidable opponents Finland and Slovakia. The group stage will test Sweden’s defensive prowess and overall team depth as they aim to secure a strong position in the tournament.
The game against Italy is set for 12:10 p.m. Wednesday at Santagiulia Arena in Milan. Broadcast coverage will be available on USA and Peacock networks.
