Sweden's WJC roster just released!

Final squad by swedish coach

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom Florida Panthers (born 1990)
Mark Owuya (born 1989)

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman (born 1990)
Tim Erixon (born 1991)
Sebastian Erixon (1989)
Erik Karlsson Ottawa Senators
Nichlas Torp Montreal (born 1989)
David Rundblad (born 1990)
Viktor Ekbom (born 1989)

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby NJ Devils (born 1990)
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi (born 1991)
Mikeal Backlund Calgary Flames (born 1989)
Marcus Johansson (born 1990)
Andre Pettersson Ottawa Senators (born 1990)
Anton Persson (born 1989)
Jakob Josefson (born 1991)
Joakim Andersson Detroit Red Wings (born 1989)
Nicklas Lasu Atlanta Thrashers (born 1989)
David Ullstrom NY islanders (born 1989)
Carl Gustavsson (born 1989)
Simon Hjalmarsson ST Blues (born 1989)


edit: No Moller. LA Kings is likely not releasing him.


Comments?

haha.. Josefson looked pretty surprised :laugh:

nice that timmy erixon made it. :handclap:

no surprised on the rest besides anton persson.

i miss henrik eriksson. :(

wjcfan, it's both erixon on D

Is it sure that Hedman will be ready for the WJC (I'm talking about his injury)?

should be a great gold medal game with canada

haha.. Josefson looked pretty surprised :laugh:

he looked pretty as well. imagine if blue jackets could draft him. josefson and filatov together, they could draw a lot of teenage girls to hockey games...:nod:

nice that timmy erixon made it. :handclap:

no surprised on the rest besides anton persson.

i miss henrik eriksson. :(


No Anton Gustavsson caps, maybe he is injured again?

Viktor Ekbom ?Anton Persson ?Andre Pettersson ?





:facepalm:

he looked pretty as well. imagine if blue jackets could draft him. josefson and filatov together, they could draw a lot of teenage girls to hockey games...:nod:

Which is EXACTLY the type of crowd the NHL wants to attract. :sarcasm: ;)

I would have liked to see Thomas Enström, he can score and is gritty despite his smallish frame. But it's a nice squad. I like it.

Wow what a team! Fantastic goaltender, great defense and great offense...will be a tough team to beat.

No Anton Gustavsson caps, maybe he is injured again?
I'm pretty sure he's healthy but he didn't play at the last showcase (due to injury I guess) and has limited international exposure. He should make it next year.

Is it sure that Hedman will be ready for the WJC (I'm talking about his injury)?

according to swedish coach today, yes they fully expect him to play WJC.

Wow what a team! Fantastic goaltender, great defense and great offense...will be a tough team to beat.

Speaking of the goalie.. He had a 40 save shutout tonight.. He got lucky a couple of times, but still very impressive:nod:

bah, Thorp was not as funny as Josefson when SVT told him he made the team:laugh:

according to swedish coach today, yes they fully expect him to play WJC.

Very good news! Thanks!

Andre Petersson is an Ottawa Senators prospect

No Anton Gustavsson caps, maybe he is injured again?

He's just been too bad, he did get pretty much the whole pre-season ruined but he hasent picked up since.

The big thing for me is that Marcus Johansson is in the lineup.. That kid is gonna be a big big BIG exclamation mark this WJC.. :nod:

Very interesting squad. Only 11 players born 1989. 7 players born 1990, 3 players born 1991 (T.Erixon,Paajarvi & Josefsson). Has team Sweden ever had a squad this young? I doubt it.

It's spelled Rundblad with a d, not Runblad ;) I hate making remarks like this, but lots of ppl seem to spell his name wrongly.

What roles do you guys expect Erik Karlsson and Andre Petersson to have with the team?

Extremely young, but also extremely talented. The rest of the teams will take notice this year.

I'm guessing they will bring in a different player, if the Kings don't allow Möller to go?

Oh hey just notice that Anton Lander was left off the team, I find that a little surprising.

Two questions:

Mario Kempe - Why/Why not?
Mark Owuya - He knows American Idol doesn't begin until later in January, yes?

it's a pretty young squad yes.

Markstrom will be the key imo. He just had a 40 save shutout in SEL today also.

Two questions:

Mario Kempe - Why/Why not?
Mark Owuya - He knows American Idol doesn't begin until later in January, yes?
Kempe is born 1988 and I hoping for North American TV to interview Owuya. :D

Two questions:

Mario Kempe - Why/Why not?
Mark Owuya - He knows American Idol doesn't begin until later in January, yes?

Mario Kempe played last year and sucked ass.

Owuya will be not be playing anything anyway.


edit: as for Anton Lander, he will get his chance next year.

Is Owuya legitimately a draft prospect?

The roster already? wow :amazed:

Owuya's still eligible? Has he gotten any more serious about his hockey or is he still hoping to flame out in his clay aiken wannabe crap?

Is Owuya legitimately a draft prospect?

i doubt it. in his first eligible year he was highly touted and surprisingly passed. and since then he improved a lot, but he has to earn himself a spot to make some noise.

he has some nice talent and could go the UFA way to north america.

Owuya's still eligible? Has he gotten any more serious about his hockey or is he still hoping to flame out in his clay aiken wannabe crap?

Owuya played in a recent U20 tournament for sweden and was lights out.

Owuya played in a recent U20 tournament for sweden and was lights out.

glad to hear it. In his draft year, unless Im wrong, he was amongst the top three rated goalies and didn't get picked. Being the son of an immigrant I hope he realizes that its time to roll up the sleeves and get to work cause as soon as the schtick of being "mark in da park" wore out the public woud toss him by the wayside. It was like having a winning lottery ticket and trading it in for an american idol one...

Wonder what the swedish version of simon was like anyway

Mario Kempe - Why/Why not?
Not eligible, born 88.

Is Owuya legitimately a draft prospect?
He's not a bad goalie.

He's not a bad goalie.

I agree but if he's ever going to change the common perception of him as immature, unserious about his sport and a generally clownish person then he probably has his work cut out for him.

This is clearly a team picked for the big ice in europe. Coach Per Mårts is making a huge mistake by not grabbing the tough guys like Anton Gustafsson, Martin Lundberg, Alexander Urbom etc.. BIG MISTAKE.:cry:

I agree but if he's ever going to change the common perception of him as immature, unserious about his sport and a generally clownish person then he probably has his work cut out for him.

For people wondering who Mark Owuya is:

zG1F9kUDBHw

This is clearly a team picked for the big ice in europe. Coach Per Mårts is making a huge mistake by not grabbing the tough guys like Anton Gustafsson, Martin Lundberg, Alexander Urbom etc.. BIG MISTAKE.:cry:

I think you're right. But even with a team selected for big rinks I think it'll be enough to reach the semis, but probably not more. The real disaster will come this spring. Just wait until Lillis Lundh selects the most talented u18 squad in 15 years and still manages to get relegated to pool B.

For people wondering who Mark Owuya is:

zG1F9kUDBHw


LMAO When can we see him in the NHL? LOL

I would have liked to see Thomas Enström, he can score and is gritty despite his smallish frame. But it's a nice squad. I like it.

Smallish and named Enstrom, must be Tobias's brother....correct?

I hope the Thrashers draft him down the road.

For people wondering who Mark Owuya is:

zG1F9kUDBHw

Canada needs to have Jonathan Roy (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Goalie-rapper-Jonathan-Roy-earns-street-cred-fa?urn=nhl,97661) as one of their goalies. In the Canada vs. Sweden exhibition game before the tournament a brawl like in 87 breakouts instead of a the goalies squaring off at center ice, Owuya and Roy rap battle it out :sarcasm:

Tedenby and MSP on the same line please.

Tedenby - Josefson- MSP?

There seem to be a lot of people that is bothered by Owuya. I'm not, he is an excellent goalie, great prospect and he's got a good attitude on the ice. He wouldn't make this year's WJC if he was a slacker. Why should his personality off the ice be an obstacle? It's not like he acts like he is the king of the world or anything.

Whats this? People start talking about rap and dre shows up :sarcasm:

Should be great seeing the Flames first round pick centering the number 1 line.

Smallish and named Enstrom, must be Tobias's brother....correct?

I hope the Thrashers draft him down the road.

amazing P.I. skills. ;)

if the last name is enstrom and first name starts with a T, it's the same family. thomas and tommy are his brothers.

Canada needs to have Jonathan Roy (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Goalie-rapper-Jonathan-Roy-earns-street-cred-fa?urn=nhl,97661) as one of their goalies. In the Canada vs. Sweden exhibition game before the tournament a brawl like in 87 breakouts instead of a the goalies squaring off at center ice, Owuya and Roy rap battle it out :sarcasm:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGADsR9Wtyg

amazing P.I. skills. ;)

if the last name is enstrom and first name starts with a T, it's the same family. thomas and tommy are his brothers.

And then there's Tina Enström, who plays for the womens national team..

Why didn't Anton Lander make the team?!

For people wondering who Mark Owuya is:

zG1F9kUDBHw

Wow, what a retard.

Should be great seeing the Flames first round pick centering the number 1 line.

we sure Backlund will be on the #1 line?

Don't forget the S song!

gGADsR9Wtyg

Smallish and named Enstrom, must be Tobias's brother....correct?


Yes.

Is Figren too old this year?

Why didn't Anton Lander make the team?!

He has not been good enouge and one of swedens strongest side is the Center spot.

Awesome, wasnt sure Andre Petersson was going to make it, glad to hear it.

Hopefully TSN2 will have lots of Team Sweden games, should be a great tourny. It'll give Petersson and Karlsson a taste of the city.

we sure Backlund will be on the #1 line?

Im pritty sure Backlund and Josefson will play togather they wher very good in the last U20 togather either as 1st line or 2nd if second Joakim Anderssons line will be the number one line.

qjULaax2Rgk&feature=related

Canada needs to have Jonathan Roy (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Goalie-rapper-Jonathan-Roy-earns-street-cred-fa?urn=nhl,97661) as one of their goalies. In the Canada vs. Sweden exhibition game before the tournament a brawl like in 87 breakouts instead of a the goalies squaring off at center ice, Owuya and Roy rap battle it out :sarcasm:

I was thinking more having Jonathan Roy to jump him at center ice.

Definetly a formiddable opponent, looking forward to watching this team a lot.

Is Figren too old this year?

yea he is to old.

he looked pretty as well. imagine if blue jackets could draft him. josefson and filatov together, they could draw a lot of teenage girls to hockey games...:nod:

Yeah and a punch of Swedish guys too probably.

I haven't heard anyone speak of Gustav Nyquist yet he has 10 points in 9 games for Maine so far.

No Johan Motin? Why?

What line is Tedenby projected to play on? and with who?

What line is Tedenby projected to play on? and with who?

I think it will be MSP and Ullström.

I think it will be MSP and Ullström.

thank you!

How good is Mattias Tedenby and when will he be ready to play for the Devils?

Also, who in the NHL does Tedenby remind you of?

Is Tedenby's game comparable to Pavel Bure's? Is he that dynamic?

Can Tedenby play all three forward positions or is he best at left wing?

Thanks sooooooo much!!! :)

This is clearly a team picked for the big ice in europe. Coach Per Mårts is making a huge mistake by not grabbing the tough guys like Anton Gustafsson, Martin Lundberg, Alexander Urbom etc.. BIG MISTAKE.:cry:


What did you say? No one of the guys in the team haven´t been in tournaments in NA? Why should Sweden be hurt more of small ice than Canada hurts of big ice? Remember they took gold in Europe last year. I think Team Sweden is extremely talented this year. Why not a Canada-Sweden repreat in the final?

No Johan Motin? Why?

Not good enough offensively according to the coach.

Why didn't Anton Lander make the team?!

He is overrated.

Sweden have a few great year groups comming up. Probably like twice as good as the avg yeargroup between like 2000-2005. There is no doubting that. The result of that means that we probably will have like 3 guys in the first round, 2-3 in the 2nd round and 3-4 in the 3rd round -- or something like that. Compared to maybe and avg of 1.5 guys in the 1st, 1-2 in the 2nd and 3 in the 3rd like we usually have.

But I think some guys have been a little thrown of from all the talk about how great the Swedish system looks right now. Like Lander isn't a typical 1st round pick. MSP isn't a typical top 5-6 pick.

These kids can still become great hockeyplayers and be very good picks.

How good is Mattias Tedenby and when will he be ready to play for the Devils?

Also, who in the NHL does Tedenby remind you of?

Is Tedenby's game comparable to Pavel Bure's? Is he that dynamic?

Can Tedenby play all three forward positions or is he best at left wing?

Thanks sooooooo much!!! :)

I would compare him to Stan Chistov maybe at this point.

He is struggling with finding a purpose with his game. He is very quick and agile. He covers allot of ice and he is always moving his feets. But he isn't getting much offense out of his game right now. He could get back on track in a hurry -- but right now he is kind of heading in the wrong direction.

How good is Mattias Tedenby and when will he be ready to play for the Devils?

Also, who in the NHL does Tedenby remind you of?

Is Tedenby's game comparable to Pavel Bure's? Is he that dynamic?

Can Tedenby play all three forward positions or is he best at left wing?

Thanks sooooooo much!!! :)

he started the year playing on HV71s team which is very deep and have a lot of veteran players so after a while he was sent to Oskarshamn in Allsvenskan where he has put up 10 p in 12 g. this years wjc will be very important for Tedenby, if he's able to show a good offensive performance I think he will get a big confidence boost and try to bring even more offensive flare to his play in allsvenskan. he's nowhere near Bure's game when it comes to offense but he shows more potential to use his speed as a part of his defensive game (forechecking). I think he can become a 2-way top 6 player for New Jersey if they develop him with patience.

Awesome, wasnt sure Andre Petersson was going to make it, glad to hear it.

Hopefully TSN2 will have lots of Team Sweden games, should be a great tourny. It'll give Petersson and Karlsson a taste of the city.

And Victor Hedman :sarcasm:

Why didn't Anton Lander make the team?!

It's not due to lack of skill (if so he had been a lock) but simply a lack of icetime issue. Him and Pääjärvi has gotten little icetime this season (MSP a bit more due to the fact that he is a real winger unlike Lander who's a Center). Again Landers skill isn't a powerfull offence but his two-way game (but he's got a longer way to go than MSP before he's ready).

It's not due to lack of skill (if so he had been a lock) but simply a lack of icetime issue. Him and Pääjärvi has gotten little icetime this season (MSP a bit more due to the fact that he is a real winger unlike Lander who's a Center). Again Landers skill isn't a powerfull offence but his two-way game (but he's got a longer way to go than MSP before he's ready).

I don't think it's about ice time. It is skill and age. He isn't better offensively then any of the offensive centres and he isn't better defensively then any of the defensive centres.

Glad to see nichlas torp made the team after the tough year he had last year injury wise. Could he be the captain of team sweden? I know he was the captain at the u-18 in 2007

Do you guys think the top line will be the same as it was in the U20 4 Nations tournament with Backlund - Josefsson - Petersson? Or do you guys think the second line in that tournament Tedenby - Andersson - MSP will be the top line for this tournament?

By the way, both lines were dominate at times.

Do you guys think the top line will be the same as it was in the U20 4 Nations tournament with Backlund - Josefsson - Petersson? Or do you guys think the second line in that tournament Tedenby - Andersson - MSP will be the top line for this tournament?

By the way, both lines were dominate at times.

I think

Tedenby-Backlund-Pettersson
MSP-Andersson- Soemone
Josefsson third line

What roles do you guys expect Erik Karlsson and Andre Petersson to have with the team?
Karlsson - play together with Hedman. Get a lot of ice time, first PP unit also... Key player, no doubt.
André Petersson - difficult to say, but I think he might play a bigger part than people expect. He's always been good when playing against other juniors, even though he's not really tested on senior level, but afterall WJC is not senior level...

Oh hey just notice that Anton Lander was left off the team, I find that a little surprising.
Not really. Lander is a good player, but I think he's kinda overrated. He's no sensational player like Josefsson, Pääjärvi etc. Of course, Lander will probably play WJC next season (and the season after that), but he's not good enough at the moment. There are simply better options.

I'm also happy that overrated players like Motin and Anton Gustafsson are not in the squad. Motin was kinda crappy in WJC last year and he's no better now. Gustafsson is an injury prone and would never had the same level of hype if his father was someone else.

People seem surprised that Anton Persson, non drafted player, is in the roster. I'm surprised that people are surprised... The guy is probably the best penalty killer in the entire team, and he has plenty of experience from games against the players Sweden will face in WJC. He's been with this national team for many years... Of course, he's not a player you notice, because he's almost never scoring and he's not specatcular in any way, but his defensive game is world class (for a junior) and his penalty killing is fantastic. The only reason why he's not getting regular games in SEL is because his team already have many defensively skilled centers... Like Mads Hansen, Steve Dixon (former canadian WJC player) etc.

As for "Mark in the Park" Owuya, he has been very good in SEL-2 during his loan spell in Almtuna, and he has proven himself for the U20 team, so I don't see why he shouldn't be the backup gk for the fantastic Markström.

Final squad by swedish coach

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom Florida Panthers (born 1990)
Mark Owuya (born 1989)

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman (born 1990)
Tim Erixon (born 1991)
Sebastian Erixon (1989)
Erik Karlsson Ottawa Senators
Nichlas Torp Montreal (born 1989)
David Rundblad (born 1990)
Viktor Ekbom (born 1989)

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby NJ Devils (born 1990)
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi (born 1991)
Mikeal Backlund Calgary Flames (born 1989)
Marcus Johansson (born 1990)
Andre Pettersson Ottawa Senators(born 1990)
Anton Persson (born 1989)
Jakob Josefson (born 1991)
Joakim Andersson Detroit Red Wings (born 1989)
Nicklas Lasu Atlanta Thrashers (born 1989)
David Ullstrom NY islanders (born 1989)
Carl Gustavsson (born 1989)
Simon Hjalmarsson ST Blues (born 1989)


edit: No Moller. LA Kings is likely not releasing him.


Comments?

YES! Petersson made the cut!

YES! Petersson made the cut!

Not surprising. He played great in last U20 tournament which sweden won.

What did you say? No one of the guys in the team haven´t been in tournaments in NA? Why should Sweden be hurt more of small ice than Canada hurts of big ice? Remember they took gold in Europe last year. I think Team Sweden is extremely talented this year. Why not a Canada-Sweden repreat in the final?

He ment why don't we have any physical players like Anton Gustafsson etc and i tend to agree we need some good physical players like them and not only figure skateing.

But i think it would be a failier if we don't go atleast top 4 final i expect for this team.

I would compare him to Stan Chistov maybe at this point.

He is struggling with finding a purpose with his game. He is very quick and agile. He covers allot of ice and he is always moving his feets. But he isn't getting much offense out of his game right now. He could get back on track in a hurry -- but right now he is kind of heading in the wrong direction.

he isn't getting much offense out of his game right now? You're kidding right? He is putting up close to a ppg as an 18 YEAR OLD in the 2nd best swedish league. Go look at his past few international tournaments and see his stats. Check out Backlund's stats as an 18 year old in the 2nd best swedish league and get back to me. If Tedenby is struggling to find his offensive game Backlund's offensive game is nowhere to be found.

I would compare him to Stan Chistov maybe at this point.

He is struggling with finding a purpose with his game. He is very quick and agile. He covers allot of ice and he is always moving his feets. But he isn't getting much offense out of his game right now. He could get back on track in a hurry -- but right now he is kind of heading in the wrong direction.

2007-2008- 17/18 YEARS OLD
SuperElit= 25gp, 14g, 16a, 30p
Elitserien(HV 71)= 23gp, 3g, 3a, 6p
U18 International Tournaments(all)= 14gp, 10g, 8a, 18p

2008-2009- 18 YEARS OLD
Elitserien(HV 71)= 9gp, 0g, 0a, 0p
Champions League(HV 71)= 1gp, 1g, 0a, 1p
Allsvenskan= 12gp, 2g, 8a, 10p
4 Nations U20= 3gp, 2g, 1a, 3p

So tell me again where he is struggling to find a purpose with his game, and isn't getting much offense out of his game right now and is heading in the wrong direction? OK this year in 9 games he struggled to put up points in the ELITE league as an 18 YEAR OLD. He did have a goal in the Champions league however. I find your post absurd.

That looks like a great team. It's nice to see Sweden back with a top notch squad. It'll help make for an even more exciting World Juniors...

nice to see petersson making it... everything we had heard (even after U20s) made it seem like he was on the bubble. Hopefully he can get into a favorable situation with all that skill up front, possibly playing on the 2nd line?

It will be a huge opportunity for karlsson and petersson playing in front of their future fans in ottawa. Looking for karlsson to make an impact on d as well, as i'm sure hedman will be playing lights out to try to secure his draft position.

Glad to see nichlas torp made the team after the tough year he had last year injury wise. Could he be the captain of team sweden? I know he was the captain at the u-18 in 2007

Doubt it. I'd guess either Backlund or Andersson will get it.

Can anyone give some info on Ullstrom? Hows he been doing this season? What role is he likely to play on this team?

Thanks

Thanks for the feedback on Tedenby. Looks like there are some differing opinions of where his game is at.

Just want to know when you guys think we can see him on the Devils?

How many years will we have to wait?

Could he come over and play in the AHL next year?

Thanks!!! :yo:

any chance we see hjalmarsson on line 1? his numbers have been great this year.

Karlsson, Pettersson, Torp :handclap:

Impressive squad indeed.

For one having seen Erik Karlsson this season, I'm somewhat surprised over the hype over him on this board. He has had one good game this season and that was a non competition game against Ottawa.

In the SEL he has made a ton of defensive errors and even though he has created some things offencivly, the defensive part of his game is way too bad still.

I think the problem in his game will be very clear in the WJC. I think Motin or Oliver Ekman-Larsson would have been better choises.

For one having seen Erik Karlsson this season, I'm somewhat surprised over the hype over him on this board. He has had one good game this season and that was a non competition game against Ottawa.

In the SEL he has made a ton of defensive errors and even though he has created some things offencivly, the defensive part of his game is way too bad still.

I think the problem in his game will be very clear in the WJC. I think Motin or Oliver Ekman-Larsson would have been better choises.
Motin? You don't choose between an offensive D-man and a defensive one when you select players.

Ekman-Larsson? Why? Sure, Karlsson has had some problems in SEL, but he has been brilliant for Borås in SEL-2, which is the same level as Ekman-Larsson is playing on.

And don't forget, Ekman-Larsson didn't really show anything special in the last U20 tournament, while Karlsson was very good (even though we know he can play even better). Plus Karlsson has always been good together with Hedman.

And don't forget #2 - that Ekman-Larsson plays for the very best team in SEL-2 and gets a lot of easy games in that way. If he really is better than Karlsson etc, why didn't he show in when playing with the U20 team?

any chance we see hjalmarsson on line 1? his numbers have been great this year.
It seems like Hjalmarsson will play with Joakim Andersson and Lasu. They have been team mates for many years (not anymore though) and know eachother very well - both off and on ice.

Simon Hjalmarsson stats ?


thanks

Simon Hjalmarsson stats ?


thanks

21 8 9 17 +2 10


You're welcome

i'll bewatching to see how well Josefson and Rundblad play --obviously influencing their draft ranking ...

This looks like a good team, and I can't wait for some good Sweden-Russia, Sweden-Canada games come December/January.


Junior team set to compete for Sweden (http://thesportscorner.ca/?p=614#more-614)

With Sweden being one of the first countries to announce their 2009 World Junior Hockey Championship team, they have sent a simple message to the rest of the competing nations: we want the gold.

As their roster took shape on Monday, the Swedes will once again serve as a strong challenge against the Russians and the Canadians - both expected to put forth an elite squad.

Although the tourney, which will be held in Ottawa, doesn’t begin until December 26 and Canada still hasn’t announced their 40-member selection camp, Sweden is already ready to compete. Continue reading here... (http://thesportscorner.ca/?p=614#more-614)

This looks like a good team, and I can't wait for some good Sweden-Russia, Sweden-Canada games come December/January.

Uhhhh?? Russia???? I thought the favorites for WJC 2009 are Canada, Sweden and USA????? Have I missed something? Of course we should never underate Russia but are they a serious contender for the gold and medals more than USA? Answer please! Russia or USA? Or both?

Uhhhh?? Russia???? I thought the favorites for WJC 2009 are Canada, Sweden and USA????? Have I missed something? Of course we should never underate Russia but are they a serious contender for the gold and medals more than USA? Answer please! Russia or USA? Or both?

I think they are a team always considered serious contenders. I mean, sure their full team roster isn't released but having watched several ADT CHL vs Russian Selects game, they aren't a team that's not going to be exciting. I mean, I'm not sure if Filatov will be playing but I'm guessing he will be, and I'm excited to watch Grachev (Brampton) play for the Russians. When it comes to the USA, ya no doubt they'll have a good team, I just could care less.

So to answer your question, both.

I think they are a team always considered serious contenders. I mean, sure their full team roster isn't released but having watched several ADT CHL vs Russian Selects game, they aren't a team that's not going to be exciting. I mean, I'm not sure if Filatov will be playing but I'm guessing he will be, and I'm excited to watch Grachev (Brampton) play for the Russians. When it comes to the USA, ya no doubt they'll have a good team, I just could care less.

So to answer your question, both.

Thanks for the answer. I have always think about Russia as a contender for WJC 2009. But everyone here talks about Canada, Sweden and USA. That's why I'm confused. Some people even don't think Russia is a contender.

Isn't Filatov in NHL already??? Why should Russia have him in WJC but Sweden will probably not have Möller in the team. Is Möller more important and better for his team than Filatov?

Thanks for the answer. I have always think about Russia as a contender for WJC 2009. But everyone here talks about Canada, Sweden and USA. That's why I'm confused. Some people even don't think Russia is a contender.

Isn't Filatov in NHL already??? Why should Russia have him in WJC but Sweden will probably not have Möller in the team. Is Möller more important and better for his team than Filatov?

Filatov is in the AHL..

Filatov is in the AHL..

How good is he if he plays in AHL and not in NHL? Why he isn't in Columbus Blue Jackets?

Heres an article about Swedens 2009 WJ team.

With Sweden being one of the first countries to announce their 2009 World Junior Hockey Championship team, they have sent a simple message to the rest of the competing nations: we want the gold.

As their roster took shape on Monday, the Swedes will once again serve as a strong challenge against the Russians and the Canadians - both expected to put forth an elite squad.

http://thesportscorner.ca/?p=614

How good is he if he plays in AHL and not in NHL? Why he isn't in Columbus Blue Jackets?

How good is MPS? Why he plays in Timra's 4th line instead of 1st line? Bust? Answer me!!!!!!!!



:sarcasm:

How good is MPS? Why he plays in Timra's 4th line instead of 1st line? Bust? Answer me!!!!!!!!



:sarcasm:

I just wonder why he was send down to AHL. I know he played in Columbus Blue Jackets. Some people think he will make Team Russia better. Maybe he will, but only because Columbus not want him right now. Look at Möller, he will probably not play WJC because he make a big effort in LA! Is Filatov a bust?

MSP isn't a bust. Swedish coaches aren't well-known to give their juniors much ice time.

But Filatov was send from the worlds best league to a league which are worser than KHL and SEL. Big difference I think. :sarcasm:

I just wonder why he was send down to AHL. I know he played in Columbus Blue Jackets. Some people think he will make Team Russia better. Maybe he will, but only because Columbus not want him right now. Look at Möller, he will probably not play WJC because he make a big effort in LA! Is Filatov a bust?

MSP isn't a bust. Swedish coaches aren't well-known to give their juniors much ice time.

But Filatov was send from the worlds best league to a league which are worser than KHL and SEL. Big difference I think. :sarcasm:

Filatov was sent down from main team to farm team. Pretty much just like Tedenby, E.Karlsson, J.Andersson, Eller, S.Hjalmarsson etc.

Not everybody can play in NHL at 18. Moller btw didn't made it to NHL at 18. Filatov is like 78 kg he isn't ready physically and doesn't have the experience. He is doing just fine in AHL, and recieves 15-18 minutes per game. In NHL he would got 5-6 minutes per game.

He's seriously a big talent. But he is not a superstar yet of course.

Uhhhh?? Russia???? I thought the favorites for WJC 2009 are Canada, Sweden and USA????? Have I missed something? Of course we should never underate Russia but are they a serious contender for the gold and medals more than USA? Answer please! Russia or USA? Or both?

no they are not more than USA but defently more than Sweden. are you ok now:sarcasm:

Filatov was sent down from main team to farm team. Pretty much just like Tedenby, E.Karlsson, J.Andersson, Eller, S.Hjalmarsson etc.

Not everybody can play in NHL at 18. Moller btw didn't made it to NHL at 18. Filatov is like 78 kg he isn't ready physically and doesn't have the experience. He is doing just fine in AHL, and recieves 15-18 minutes per game. In NHL he would got 5-6 minutes per game.

He's seriously a big talent. But he is not a superstar yet of course.

very good answer!

no they are not more than USA but defently more than Sweden. are you ok now:sarcasm:

Well, in this forum Russia don't seems to be a favorite. Most people talking about Canada, Sweden and USA.

This is what some people said about WJC in a another thread:

The only team with legit shots at winning besides Canada are Sweden and the USA. Yes Russia isn't in there.

I agree. There's a sizeable drop off this year after Canada, Sweden and USA.


It'll be a great tourny. On paper Canada might have the 3rd best team. USA really has a sick defense while top Canadian defender wont show up. Canadian defense will be their weakess in a while for sure. Swedish team is great all around and has got the most skilled forwards in the tourny IMO.


Last year Sweden came within one goal of beating Canada for the gold, and was the only team in years that did defeat Canada in the tournament. This was in europe though, now Canada is back at home turf, so the task will be even more difficult this year. Canada is as usual the heavy favorite for the gold.

Sweden, Russia and USA can all challenge though, cant wait until the tournament starts :yo:

You won't hear me saying that. Sure, home-ice advantage can help, especially for North American countries accustomed to smaller ice surface, but Canada will need more than that. I expect big things from U.S. and Sweden at this tournament.

Id say that team Sweden has the most talent on their team, that being said, Canada always does find a way to grind out wins. I do think Russia will challenge as well. They don't have any superstars but they play very well together and can have different players step up at any time in a game to win it for them.

I don't even know if I consider Canada to be a favorite right now with so many players in the NHL. Being on home ice is an advantage though.

Than who is?

Sweden should have a good team, and the US looks like it could be strong as well.

The last three ones are the same conversation.

Actually I defended Russia. This is what I wrote:
Well, I don't think we shall underate Russia. Remember a team on the paper is competely diffrent than a team on the ice. Often, underated teams does better than the favorites.

I still think this will be the greatest WJC in many years when we talking about the COMPETITION. Canada doesn't seems to be that great as the last year. USA, Sweden and I would say Russia too will give a real fight about the medals.

But to mee it seems USA are bigger favorites than Russia for many people. That's why I was suprised Russia was mentioned and not USA.

Filatov was sent down from main team to farm team. Pretty much just like Tedenby, E.Karlsson, J.Andersson, Eller, S.Hjalmarsson etc.

Not everybody can play in NHL at 18. Moller btw didn't made it to NHL at 18. Filatov is like 78 kg he isn't ready physically and doesn't have the experience. He is doing just fine in AHL, and recieves 15-18 minutes per game. In NHL he would got 5-6 minutes per game.

He's seriously a big talent. But he is not a superstar yet of course.

Thanks, this answer was what I needed!

here is the medalist from last 2 U18 WC.
2007
Russia
USA
Sweden


2008
Canada
Russia
USA
all those guys will play at this year WJC. how can you say that Russia is not one of the main favorites for a gold medal?:help:

here is the medalist from last 2 U18 WC.
2007
Russia
USA
Sweden


2008
Canada
Russia
USA
all those guys will play at this year WJC. how can you say that Russia is not one of the main favorites for a gold medal?:help:


2006-U18
USA
Finland
Czech.Rep
Canada
Russia
Sweden

2008-U20
Canada
Sweden
Russia
USA
Czech.Rep
Finland


What's your point once again?

2006-U18
USA
Finland
Czech.Rep
Canada
Russia
Sweden

2008-U20
Canada
Sweden
Russia
USA
Czech.Rep
Finland


What's your point once again?

Pouskin proved his point. Your examples on the other hand has less relevance.

Pouskin proved his point. Your examples on the other hand has less relevance.

How really? This example shows that age group of 88 born players had one result as 18 y.o. But as 20 y.o. it went absolutely different.

If you will look at Russian U18 roster or at Swedish in 2007 you can see that not so many players will play in this WJC U20.
From Sweden for example only 12 players.

It's different tournaments.

P.S. Russia will have a good team for sure, a contender for medals. But they are not "favorites" this year. Favorite is Canada, after that, Sweden, USA and Russia are contenders.

I never said that Russia aren't a contender for medals or even maybe the gold. But what I read in this forum says USA is a bigger favorite than Russia. For me it seems Russia is the 4th favorite after Canada(of course), Sweden and USA.

I never said that Russia aren't a contender for medals or even maybe the gold. But what I read in this forum says USA is a bigger favorite than Russia. For me it seems Russia is the 4th favorite after Canada(of course), Sweden and USA.

4th? once again based on what did you made that list?1- Canada ? agree a 100%. 2-Sweden? your comments please:help: 3-USA? your comments as well:help:

How really? This example shows that age group of 88 born players had one result as 18 y.o. But as 20 y.o. it went absolutely different.

If you will look at Russian U18 roster or at Swedish in 2007 you can see that not so many players will play in this WJC U20.
From Sweden for example only 12 players.

It's different tournaments.

P.S. Russia will have a good team for sure, a contender for medals. But they are not "favorites" this year. Favorite is Canada, after that, Sweden, USA and Russia are contenders.

agree

4th? once again based on what did you made that list?1- Canada ? agree a 100%. 2-Sweden? your comments please:help: 3-USA? your comments as well:help:

By reading the comments from people in here it seems they think Sweden and USA are bigger threats to Canada than Russia. Why? But I didn't random them (even Canada is my bigget favorite to win the gold). Maybe USA is a bigger favorite than Sweden? I don't know.

By reading the comments from people in here it seems they think Sweden and USA are bigger threats to Canada than Russia. Why? But I didn't random them (even Canada is my bigget favorite to win the gold). Maybe USA is a bigger favorite than Sweden? I don't know.

thats my point here that in reality things have been in this way- World U20
2002
Russia
Canada
Finland
Pardubice/Hradec Kralove

2003
Russia
Canada
Finland
Halifax/Sydney

2004
USA
Canada
Finland
Helsinki/Hameenlinna

2005
Canada
Russia
Czech Republic
Grand Forks/Thief River Falls

2006
Canada
Russia
Finland
Vancouver/Kelowna/Kamloops

2007
Canada
Russia
USA
Leksand/Mora

2008
Canada
Sweden
Russia

those people just dont have clue....

thats my point here that in reality things have been in this way- World U20
2002
Russia
Canada
Finland
Pardubice/Hradec Kralove

2003
Russia
Canada
Finland
Halifax/Sydney

2004
USA
Canada
Finland
Helsinki/Hameenlinna

2005
Canada
Russia
Czech Republic
Grand Forks/Thief River Falls

2006
Canada
Russia
Finland
Vancouver/Kelowna/Kamloops

2007
Canada
Russia
USA
Leksand/Mora

2008
Canada
Sweden
Russia

those people just dont have clue....

Then why is Russia a bigger favorite than Sweden to OG 2010? Russia's results in 90's and 00's isn't even close Sweden results.

Since 1990:

Russia/Soviet: GOLD: 4 (3 WCH, 1 OG), SILVER: 2 (1 WCH, 1 OG), BRONZE: 4 (3 WCH, 1 OG)

Sweden: GOLD: 6 (4 WCH, 2 OG), SILVER: 6 (WCH), BRONZE: 4 (WCH).

Sweden has been in 12 finals since 90 and Russia only 6. Why is Russia bigger favorite? They don't have clue in this case too?

Then why is Russia a bigger favorite than Sweden to OG 2010? Russia's results in 90's and 00's isn't even close Sweden results.

Since 1990:

Russia/Soviet: GOLD: 4 (3 WCH, 1 OG), SILVER: 2 (1 WCH, 1 OG), BRONZE: 4 (3 WCH, 1 OG)

Sweden: GOLD: 6 (4 WCH, 2 OG), SILVER: 6 (WCH), BRONZE: 4 (WCH).

Sweden has been in 12 finals since 90 and Russia only 6. Why is Russia bigger favorite? They don't have clue in this case too?

at junior age you can make a decision based on resaults of U17,U18 and even U20 because we dont have other comparisation (people playing in different countrys) but on National level we have NHL and Euro tournaments ( EUROTOUR and Championsligue) by the way what ever contest we not talking about no need to go further than 5-6 years

at junior age you can make a decision based on resaults of U17,U18 and even U20 because we dont have other comparisation (people playing in different countrys) but on National level we have NHL and Euro tournaments ( EUROTOUR and Championsligue) by the way what ever contest we not talking about no need to go further than 5-6 years

pouskin......with no Cherepanov 1989 Russia is absolute garbage. Nobody but Dadonov, Mayorov and maybe Goncharov have developed properly. Key players from that gold U-18 team Averin, Korostin, Karamnov, plus the Bashkirovs twins all suck now.

Russia will be relying BIG TIME on the 1990s but no team is going to do well if relying too much younger players; not to mention Kirill Petrov will most likely still be injured and wont play either.

Can anyone give some info on Ullstrom? Hows he been doing this season? What role is he likely to play on this team?

Thanks

Ullström have been injured a couple of weaks, and have spent most of the season with my team Borås in SEL2 (Allsvenskan).

He's got 8 goals and 5 assists in 14 games with us and was the real bright spot on the team early when the team struggled.

The most dynamic player on the team. He's got gamebreaking skills but lacks a bit in consistency and makes some defensive lapses from time to time.

His offensive upside is larger than Simon Hjalmarssons (a player that's been rock solid for our team) and I'd say his potential is better if he could get his defensive play in better order.

Lasu, Ullström and Hjalmarsson have played alot together this season although Ullström will as already has been said here play with MSP and Tedenby, while Lasu and Hjalmarsson plays with Joakim Andersson. At least that's how it has looked earlier this season on the national juniors team.

at junior age you can make a decision based on resaults of U17,U18 and even U20 because we dont have other comparisation (people playing in different countrys) but on National level we have NHL and Euro tournaments ( EUROTOUR and Championsligue) by the way what ever contest we not talking about no need to go further than 5-6 years

The NHL and the Euro Tourney's are one thing, WCH and OG are a another... Sweden and Czech Republic are much more successful than Russia since 1990. Even Finland has played more finals than Russia. But Russia is still the favorite. STRANGE!

WJC teams must be more fresh than Senior teams since players being too old quickly That's why old results in WJC don't mean much. Then the juniors changes very much in these years. Some players don't be good as many thought and some players who wasn't that good in U-18 are much greater talents in U-20 team. A U-18 team is a competely different than a U-20 team.

The NHL and the Euro Tourney's are one thing, WCH and OG are a another... Sweden and Czech Republic are much more successful than Russia since 1990. Even Finland has played more finals than Russia. But Russia is still the favorite. STRANGE!

WJC teams must be more fresh than Senior teams since players being too old quickly That's why old results in WJC don't mean much. Then the juniors changes very much in these years. Some players don't be good as many thought and some players who wasn't that good in U-18 are much greater talents in U-20 team. A U-18 team is a competely different than a U-20 team.

once again. juniors or seniors there no sense to go further than 5-6 years. russian home league was weaker than Sweden or finnland leagues(russians were losing at EUROCUP) + russian NHL players didnt show a attitude what people expect from them. resaults? bad ones! generation have been changed and in new century russians have much stronger league than sweden and finnland and stars from NHL have more desire to represent Russia. if you take a look at Russians resault during last 5-6 years then you can see that they are going stronger and stronger(they beat everybody at europe and they have very strong players in NHL). thats why we can call them and canada as a main favorites for 2010 gold. you are saying that U18 is different than U20? yes they are but not as much as you sayd. but even if you are right then just tell me based on what you are saying that USA and SWEDEN have a more chance to compete for a gold this year than Russia? swedens won russians a month ago by shoot-out. and believe me at least 70% of that russian team will be different at 2009WJC. that mean stronger.

once again. juniors or seniors there no sense to go further than 5-6 years. russian home league was weaker than Sweden or finnland leagues(russians were losing at EUROCUP) + russian NHL players didnt show a attitude what people expect from them. resaults? bad ones! generation have been changed and in new century russians have much stronger league than sweden and finnland and stars from NHL have more desire to represent Russia. if you take a look at Russians resault during last 5-6 years then you can see that they are going stronger and stronger(they beat everybody at europe and they have very strong players in NHL). thats why we can call them and canada as a main favorites for 2010 gold. you are saying that U18 is different than U20? yes they are but not as much as you sayd. but even if you are right then just tell me based on what you are saying that USA and SWEDEN have a more chance to compete for a gold this year than Russia? swedens won russians a month ago by shoot-out. and believe me at least 70% of that russian team will be different at 2009WJC. that mean stronger.

Okay in 2000's

Russia: 1 Gold(WCH), 1 silver(WCH), 3 bronze(2 WCH, 1 OG)
Czech R: 3 Gold(WCH), 1 silver(WCH), 1 bronze(OG)
Sweden: 2 Gold(1 WCH, 1 OG), 2 Silver(WCH), 2 bronze(WCH)

Tell me again: how can Russia be a favorite? In wch and OG Russia's results aren't better than Czechs and Swedes. Late as 2006 Sweden took both the Golds...

That was a training tourney. It's only because the coaches should test the players. It will be a competely different story in WJC. Remember Russia hardly beat Finland who hasn't a chance against Sweden. That's why we shouldn't look at single result so serious. Remember in the team statistic of this tourney, Sweden was best in EVERYTHING. You say Russia will be stronger???? Well let's see. Look at The draft entry 2009. Where's the russians? And the Swedes?
You took a single game result as a reason why Sweden can't be a bigger favorite than Russia. Then you said almost whole the Russian team will be changed to WJC. Why you took this game as a reason? Sweden still have to meet the Russian team which will play in WJC. Is Russia better than Sweden? We still don't know. Let's see when Russia release their team and let's see what's happen in WJC. Now it's seems Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia and I think it's because "hype"(I couldn't find a better word) around Hedman, Markström, MSP, Josefsson...

Okay in 2000's

Russia: 1 Gold(WCH), 1 silver(WCH), 3 bronze(2 WCH, 1 OG)
Czech R: 3 Gold(WCH), 1 silver(WCH), 1 bronze(OG)
Sweden: 2 Gold(1 WCH, 1 OG), 2 Silver(WCH), 2 bronze(WCH)

Tell me again: how can Russia be a favorite? In wch and OG Russia's results aren't better than Czechs and Swedes. Late as 2006 Sweden took both the Golds...

That was a training tourney. It's only because the coaches should test the players. It will be a competely different story in WJC. Remember Russia hardly beat Finland who hasn't a chance against Sweden. That's why we shouldn't look at single result so serious. You say Russia will be stronger???? Well let's see. Look at The draft entry 2009. Where's the russians? And the Swedes?

who did play main role for swedes on those tournaments? those people are retired or are going to retire. by the way at 2006 OM games Russia beat Swedes 5-0:) but whatever . teams at 2010 would be 90% different than 2006. both teams Russia and Sweden and even Canada have a new generation and that will be completly different comparing to 2006 teams. 2009 draft are going better for Swedes than for Russians but you dont want to see how good will be 2010 draft for russians:) however i do agree with you whos gonna better at 2009 WJC? we will see.

who did play main role for swedes on those tournaments? those people are retired or are going to retire. by the way at 2006 OM games Russia beat Swedes 5-0:) but whatever . teams at 2010 would be 90% different than 2006. both teams Russia and Sweden and even Canada have a new generation and that will be completly different comparing to 2006 teams. 2009 draft are going better for Swedes than for Russians but you dont want to see how good will be 2010 draft for russians:) however i do agree with you whos gonna better at 2009 WJC? we will see.


But still the oldies wasn't in the WCH gold team 2006.

In OG 2006: Russia lost to Finland 0-4 in a game much more important than the group game between Russia-Sweden.

So what do you say? Russia had a bad generation? Then why was they favorites in almost every year?

Is a long time to the draft 2010. The Swedes still have much time to step up. I don't think many of these guys will be in WJC 2009. Still no reason to why Sweden can't be a bigger favorite than Russia.

But still the oldies wasn't in the WCH gold team 2006.

In OG 2006: Russia lost to Finland 0-4 in a game much more important than the group game between Russia-Sweden.

So what do you say? Russia had a bad generation? Then why was they favorites in almost every year?

Is a long time to the draft 2010. The Swedes still have much time to step up. I don't think many of these guys will be in WJC 2009. Still no reason to why Sweden can't be a bigger favorite than Russia.

who were main power for 2006 Sweden WC team? ok there they are -Karlsson 31,Nylander 34,samuelsson 33,jonnson 32 and only kronwall was 26. i just mention a guys who were among 30 best players by stats! 4 people from 5 represent older generation. yes you are right Russians beat Canada at quarters and they thought GAME IS OVER WE ARE GOING TO WIN GOLD! 100% of stupidy! eventually they did lose because of that attitude! Russia has and have a great generation but between generation of 90-s and new one is a big difference. those guys didnt care but new ones CARE a lot. at 1998 OM and 2002 Olympig Games Russians werent taken as a main favorites for a gold by NHL experts and mostly because of that ATTITUDE! they were right but now you can take a look what those experts think right now about 2010 OM and who are going to compete for a gold? 6 teams but among them is 2 main favorites Canada and Russia. sorry but thats correct:) 2010 Draft is not far away and as we new that at 2009 there is maybe only 1 or even none russians in first round in same way know that at 2010 there gonna be many russians at first round and at least one of them are main favorite for a TOP SPOT! PS.... you havnt told me why you call Swedens bigger favorites at 2009 WJC than Russians?

who were main power for 2006 Sweden WC team? ok there they are -Karlsson 31,Nylander 34,samuelsson 33,jonnson 32 and only kronwall was 26. i just mention a guys who were among 30 best players by stats! 4 people from 5 represent older generation. yes you are right Russians beat Canada at quarters and they thought GAME IS OVER WE ARE GOING TO WIN GOLD! 100% of stupidy! eventually they did lose because of that attitude! Russia has and have a great generation but between generation of 90-s and new one is a big difference. those guys didnt care but new ones CARE a lot. at 1998 OM and 2002 Olympig Games Russians werent taken as a main favorites for a gold by NHL experts and mostly because of that ATTITUDE! they were right but now you can take a look what those experts think right now about 2010 OM and who are going to compete for a gold? 6 teams but among them is 2 main favorites Canada and Russia. sorry but thats correct:) 2010 Draft is not far away and as we new that at 2009 there is maybe only 1 or even none russians in first round in same way know that at 2010 there gonna be many russians at first round and at least one of them are main favorite for a TOP SPOT! PS.... you havnt told me why you call Swedens bigger favorites at 2009 WJC than Russians?

How you know that the new generations attitude are better than old one???? No I cant see how Russia can be a bigger favorite than the other European top nations...

WC 2006: Hello??? Forgot Zetterberg? The old big stars wasn't in the team but still Sweden won the Gold. We had Holmqvist and Liv in the goal, juts for example

And how many 2010 drafters will be in WJC 2009 do you think? Not many. Sweden is far more powerful than Russia in 2009 draft which is much more important for WJC 2009. I don't know why you keep talking about 2010. It's early for them to dominate WJC 2009.

I don't know much about the other teams. But for me it seems Sweden's kids born 90 and 91 are better than Russia's. And maybe that's why many take Sweden as a biggger favorite than Russia.

Still, I wait for the answer. Why should Russia be a bigger favorite to OG 2010?And why can´t Sweden be a bigger favorite than Russia in WJC 2009?

Yikes, thats a solid team. Would have liked to see Motin on the back end though.

cant wait to see Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi

PS.... you havnt told me why you call Swedens bigger favorites at 2009 WJC than Russians?There team is better?

They have a fantastic goaltender, one of the best defense cores in the draft and one of the most explosive teams up front.

Motin? You don't choose between an offensive D-man and a defensive one when you select players.

I think your argument falls a little by the fact that we already have 3-4 extremly capable offensive defenders on the squad. We don't need a security threat like Karlsson. We need a good stay at home minded defender like Motin.

Ekman-Larsson? Why? Sure, Karlsson has had some problems in SEL, but he has been brilliant for Borås in SEL-2, which is the same level as Ekman-Larsson is playing on.

And don't forget, Ekman-Larsson didn't really show anything special in the last U20 tournament, while Karlsson was very good (even though we know he can play even better). Plus Karlsson has always been good together with Hedman.

And don't forget #2 - that Ekman-Larsson plays for the very best team in SEL-2 and gets a lot of easy games in that way. If he really is better than Karlsson etc, why didn't he show in when playing with the U20 team?

I can agree that Karlsson vs Ekman-Larsson is a coin toss at best but from what I've seen, Ekman-Larsson is the better defencive player of the two.

There team is better?

They have a fantastic goaltender, one of the best defense cores in the draft and one of the most explosive teams up front.

Thanks!

But I must point out I have not said I think Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia. But by watching the reactions in this forum the main opinion seems to be that Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia.
Now a question: WHY have Russians so hard to accept that their team isn't the big favorite from Europe? Pouskin74 said all people who says Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia in WJC 2009 are CLUELESS. Then he said that Russia is a favorite for OG 2010 and it's absoultely right. Now all people has a clue(at least them who said Russia is a favorite). Is it so hard to understand that sometimes other European countries has better teams than Russia?

Now to all people, don't call Sweden or a another European country a bigger favorite than Russia, because if so, you are clueless.

To my Swedish friends, I've heard much about Anton Gustafsson's struggles this season. Do you guys think its a product of his lingering back injury, or is he not that good a player to begin with?

To my Swedish friends, I've heard much about Anton Gustafsson's struggles this season. Do you guys think its a product of his lingering back injury, or is he not that good a player to begin with?
Both, actually.

Both, actually.

Well, that's certainly not encouraging to hear as a Caps fan. I heard so many great things about him from swedish posters on this board prior to the draft. What happened? Also, thanks for responding to my previous post.

Both, actually.

I don't think you know what you talk about Anton gustafsson is a very good player he is good at everything not an explosive force but he will run you over play good D and is an amazing passer and the last few games after he have goten back from the injury he have started to produce .

Only reason he is not there is Becouse of injury he is way better than manny of those who are there.

For those who don't know who he is here is the profil and i think its pritty much is corect.
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=6058&lang=en

Well, that's certainly not encouraging to hear as a Caps fan. I heard so many great things about him from swedish posters on this board prior to the draft. What happened? Also, thanks for responding to my previous post.
He's a good player, but there are many good players out there... I very much doubt he had been drafted in the first round if it wasn't for who his father is. Maybe 3rd or 4th round, but not the first. He has some "fans" among the people who follow swedish junior hockey, mainly because of he likes to play the body, which (unfortunately) isn't very common in Sweden, but as you understand that's nothing which would make him special in North America since many, many players play in that way over there...

My main concern with this team is the 89's. This is a tournament for juniors born 89.
You cant rely on a bunch of underagers to win the gold. Last year we had
P. Berglund to lead the way, from the 89 year group we dont have anyone like that, Backlund will really have to step up..

1989:
Sebastian Erixon (1989)
Nichlas Torp Montreal (born 1989)
Viktor Ekbom (born 1989)

Forwards:

Mikeal Backlund Calgary Flames (born 1989)
Anton Persson (born 1989)
Joakim Andersson Detroit Red Wings (born 1989)
Nicklas Lasu Atlanta Thrashers (born 1989)
David Ullstrom NY islanders (born 1989)
Carl Gustavsson (born 1989)
Simon Hjalmarsson ST Blues (born 1989)

Not exactly world beaters......

He's a good player, but there are many good players out there... I very much doubt he had been drafted in the first round if it wasn't for who his father is. Maybe 3rd or 4th round, but not the first. He has some "fans" among the people who follow swedish junior hockey, mainly because of he likes to play the body, which (unfortunately) isn't very common in Sweden, but as you understand that's nothing which would make him special in North America since many, many players play in that way over there...

Well i don't suport him bacouse of his Physical play it is becouse of his 2way game.
And i don't think the NHL scouts look oh it's BÅGS son lets draft him despite if he is good or not .

My main concern with this team is the 89's. This is a tournament for juniors born 89.
You cant rely on a bunch of underagers to win the gold. Last year we had
P. Berglund to lead the way, from the 89 year group we dont have anyone like that, Backlund will really have to step up..

1989:
Sebastian Erixon (1989)
Nichlas Torp Montreal (born 1989)
Viktor Ekbom (born 1989)

Forwards:

Mikeal Backlund Calgary Flames (born 1989)
Anton Persson (born 1989)
Joakim Andersson Detroit Red Wings (born 1989)
Nicklas Lasu Atlanta Thrashers (born 1989)
David Ullstrom NY islanders (born 1989)
Carl Gustavsson (born 1989)
Simon Hjalmarsson ST Blues (born 1989)

Not exactly world beaters......

our 1989 crop is weak thats why we rely on underages

our 1989 crop is weak thats why we rely on underages


Yes agree.

Maybe it's barely that underage teams win, it doesn't mean they can't do that. Sweden has a excellent team and will go for the GOLD, nothing else!

our 1989 crop is weak thats why we rely on underages

It's not weak. Weak were 83, 84. 89 is strong group, IMO as strong as 88. Only difference is that 89 generation doesn't have a star of Patrik Berglund's level. But overall it's as good if not better at offense and close at defense.

Look, TOP 88 born forwards are P.Berglund, R.Figren, T.Lagerstrom, M.Kempe, E.Sandin, J.Alcen, T.Larsson.

Now players like Ullstrom, Backlund, J.Andersson are better than Lagerstrom, Alcen and Kempe, T.Larsson(he's a great agitator though) RIGHT NOW, and of course are better than them last year.

How you know that the new generations attitude are better than old one???? No I cant see how Russia can be a bigger favorite than the other European top nations...

WC 2006: Hello??? Forgot Zetterberg? The old big stars wasn't in the team but still Sweden won the Gold. We had Holmqvist and Liv in the goal, juts for example

And how many 2010 drafters will be in WJC 2009 do you think? Not many. Sweden is far more powerful than Russia in 2009 draft which is much more important for WJC 2009. I don't know why you keep talking about 2010. It's early for them to dominate WJC 2009.

I don't know much about the other teams. But for me it seems Sweden's kids born 90 and 91 are better than Russia's. And maybe that's why many take Sweden as a biggger favorite than Russia.

Still, I wait for the answer. Why should Russia be a bigger favorite to OG 2010?And why can´t Sweden be a bigger favorite than Russia in WJC 2009?

i know he( zeterberg) took a part 2006 WC but he didnt show anything! Why Russia is a bigger favorite for 2010 Olympics?because they have much more powerful frontline and a little bit weaker defence and same level goalie than Sweden. simple is that. i hope that one help you understand me as well :)http://www.iihf.com/home-of-hockey/news/news-singleview/article/the-best-russian-is.html?tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=955&cHash=813e45ef76

Thanks!

But I must point out I have not said I think Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia. But by watching the reactions in this forum the main opinion seems to be that Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia.
Now a question: WHY have Russians so hard to accept that their team isn't the big favorite from Europe? Pouskin74 said all people who says Sweden is a bigger favorite than Russia in WJC 2009 are CLUELESS. Then he said that Russia is a favorite for OG 2010 and it's absoultely right. Now all people has a clue(at least them who said Russia is a favorite). Is it so hard to understand that sometimes other European countries has better teams than Russia?

Now to all people, don't call Sweden or a another European country a bigger favorite than Russia, because if so, you are clueless.

my friend:). seem to me you are overreacting:shakehead

There team is better?

They have a fantastic goaltender, one of the best defense cores in the draft and one of the most explosive teams up front.

we will see:)

It's not weak. Weak were 83, 84. 89 is strong group, IMO as strong as 88. Only difference is that 89 generation doesn't have a star of Patrik Berglund's level. But overall it's as good if not better at offense and close at defense.

Look, TOP 88 born forwards are P.Berglund, R.Figren, T.Lagerstrom, M.Kempe, E.Sandin, J.Alcen, T.Larsson.

Now players like Ullstrom, Backlund, J.Andersson are better than Lagerstrom, Alcen and Kempe, T.Larsson(he's a great agitator though) RIGHT NOW, and of course are better than them last year.

Agree. Backlund and Andersson will be good leaders for the whole team.

I'm hoping this WJC will be Tedenby's coming out party. :yo:

here is the list of names who belongs to Sweden 2009 WJC team and were in Sweden roster at U18 WC 2007 and 2008.

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom
Mark Owuya

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman
Tim Erixon
Erik Karlsson
Nichlas Torp Montreal
David Rundblad

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi
Mikeal Backlund
Marcus Johansson
Andre Pettersson
Anton Persson
Jakob Josefson
Joakim Andersson
Carl Gustavsson
Simon Hjalmarsson
as we see 17 names and all Sweden best young players are included! they got both times 4-th place (were beaten by Russia 4-2 at 2007). Russia got 1 and 2 place and beat both times USA. about 16-17 players from those Russian rosters are going to take a part at 2009 WJC as well.:) NO COMMENTS !!! we will see at January 2009

Well i don't suport him bacouse of his Physical play it is becouse of his 2way game.
And i don't think the NHL scouts look oh it's BÅGS son lets draft him despite if he is good or not .
So you think it was a coincidence that it was Washington who drafted A.Gustafsson? That it had nothing to do with who his father is? Come on...

I think Joakim Andersson is twice the player A.Gustafsson is and Andersson was drafted in the third round (congratulations Detroit for another bargain).

Gustafsson is probably going to be in the swedish WJC roster next season, but I wouldn't take that for granted either.

Just found out Erik Kalrsson was named Top Defenceman in the U20 4-Nations Tournament that happened in November. I can't wait to see him live in late December.

In case anyone missed MSP's goal last week;

http://tv.hockeyligan.se/?contentid=666541429761

remember that the groupings will be canada and USA in one group and Russia and Sweden in the other. I think sweden can lose to russia if russia plays a good game, and both are just as likely to win that group. If sweden doesnt win the group, its not inconcievable to have a russia-canada final.

here is the list of names who belongs to Sweden 2009 WJC team and were in Sweden roster at U18 WC 2007 and 2008.

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom
Mark Owuya

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman
Tim Erixon
Erik Karlsson
Nichlas Torp Montreal
David Rundblad

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi
Mikeal Backlund
Marcus Johansson
Andre Pettersson
Anton Persson
Jakob Josefson
Joakim Andersson
Carl Gustavsson
Simon Hjalmarsson
as we see 17 names and all Sweden best young players are included! they got both times 4-th place (were beaten by Russia 4-2 at 2007). Russia got 1 and 2 place and beat both times USA. about 16-17 players from those Russian rosters are going to take a part at 2009 WJC as well.:) NO COMMENTS !!! we will see at January 2009

First of all, Sweden took the BRONZE in U-18 WC 2007. Don't make false stories.

For the second: 2008 Gold medallist Canada hardly beat Finland 2-1 and in the semifinal they hardly beat Sweden 3-2. But in the final against Russia: 8-0!!!!!!!!!!!! :amazed: Russia don't wanted that gold at their home ice or what?:amazed:

For third: Sweden took BRONZE 2008 and GOLD 2007 in a another important U18 tournament, Memorial of Ivan Hlinka. The best players from NA weren't in WC 2008, they were in Ivan Hlinka tourney.

For the fourth: Russia must be lucky sometimes because their results in the tourneys aren't that impressive. Finland-Russia 10-2?????:amazed: This was in 2008 Ivan Hlinka tourney. I mean hello???????????? :amazed:

For the fifth: Where's all Russians in 2009 draft??????????????? It seems the Swedish players are ones who been better since the last year.

No this means nothing. If you look on medals so serious, then Russia shouldn't be a favorite to OG 2010 either. Sweden and Czech R. should be favorites since their results the last years are far better than Russia's.

First of all, Sweden took the BRONZE in U-18 WC 2007. Don't make false stories.

For the second: 2008 Gold medallist Canada hardly beat Finland 2-1 and in the semifinal they hardly beat Sweden 3-2. But in the final against Russia: 8-0!!!!!!!!!!!! :amazed: Russia don't wanted that gold at their home ice or what?:amazed:

For third: Sweden took BRONZE 2008 and GOLD 2007 in a another important U18 tournament, Memorial of Ivan Hlinka. The best players from NA weren't in WC 2008, they were in Ivan Hlinka tourney.

For the fourth: Russia must be lucky sometimes because their results in the tourneys aren't that impressive. Finland-Russia 10-2?????:amazed: This was in 2008 Ivan Hlinka tourney. I mean hello???????????? :amazed:

For the fifth: Where's all Russians in 2009 draft??????????????? It seems the Swedish players are ones who been better since the last year.

No this means nothing. If you look on medals so serious, then Russia shouldn't be a favorite to OG 2010 either. Sweden and Czech R. should be favorites since their results the last years are far better than Russia's.

Yeah you are taking this way to serious :) But on the other hand I agree with you even though some of those statements wasnt at all needed.

I think swedens junior team this year is better than Russias. I do however not think that swedens team come 2010 Olympics will be better than Russias. In fact, I think the russians will have the best team there. It looks so scary. C'mon look at the first line.

Ovechkin - Datsyuk - Semin :amazed:

If that wasnt enough. Look at the second line

Kovalchuk - Malkin - Kovalev :handclap:

They will be the team to beat 2010 I'm sure.

So you think it was a coincidence that it was Washington who drafted A.Gustafsson? That it had nothing to do with who his father is? Come on...

I think Joakim Andersson is twice the player A.Gustafsson is and Andersson was drafted in the third round (congratulations Detroit for another bargain).

Gustafsson is probably going to be in the swedish WJC roster next season, but I wouldn't take that for granted either.

I don't see Joakim as the better player and i don't see the caps took him becouse of BÅG he fits the game style caps play and the caps moved upp 2 spots in the draft to be able to draft him. Or he would have been snatch from another team.

here is the list of names who belongs to Sweden 2009 WJC team and were in Sweden roster at U18 WC 2007 and 2008.

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom
Mark Owuya

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman
Tim Erixon
Erik Karlsson
Nichlas Torp Montreal
David Rundblad

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi
Mikeal Backlund
Marcus Johansson
Andre Pettersson
Anton Persson
Jakob Josefson
Joakim Andersson
Carl Gustavsson
Simon Hjalmarsson
as we see 17 names and all Sweden best young players are included! they got both times 4-th place (were beaten by Russia 4-2 at 2007). Russia got 1 and 2 place and beat both times USA. about 16-17 players from those Russian rosters are going to take a part at 2009 WJC as well.:) NO COMMENTS !!! we will see at January 2009

It was 5-4. Cherepanov(RIP) scored GWG with 1 second left. Game was lost by Owuya and defenseman Eriksson who gave Russia 3 goals. Funny that on a 5-nations Russia lost to Sweden lik 2-8 or smth. It was just 1 month prior to WJC U18.

And it's not relevant at all really. Some players progress rapidly, some stagnate some even regress.

Coaching also does matter a lot. Sweden 87 was better than Sweden 88 and you can see who achieved a better result.

So it's not relevant, Russia has a strong squad as always, but if we go on roster wars, Sweden and USA look more impressive. It's just very well known that what happens on the ice is not always what happens in paper wars. Russia has a squad that can beat anybody so Russia is dangerous for Sweden and USA. And even Canada though Russians seem to struggle against Canadians.

Is Markstrom going to be the starter for the Worlds? Im interested to hear some thoughts on him, because a lot of us Panther fans are looking forward to him being our top goalie in a few years.

Is Markstrom going to be the starter for the Worlds?

um yes. He is probably the best junior goalie sweden ever had.

Is Markstrom going to be the starter for the Worlds? Im interested to hear some thoughts on him, because a lot of us Panther fans are looking forward to him being our top goalie in a few years.
Of course he's gonna be the starter in WJC... I actually think he has a chance to get in the World Championship roster... the seniors.

Obviously Lundqvist is a better goalkeeper than Markström, and I'd also say Johan Holmqvist is better, but Markström might be the third best Sweden have. And Lundqvist might not be available for WC...

In case anyone missed MSP's goal last week;

http://tv.hockeyligan.se/?contentid=666541429761

Ovechkin @ 18? :sarcasm:

Of course he's gonna be the starter in WJC... I actually think he has a chance to get in the World Championship roster... the seniors.

Obviously Lundqvist is a better goalkeeper than Markström, and I'd also say Johan Holmqvist is better, but Markström might be the third best Sweden have. And Lundqvist might not be available for WC...

Hedberg, Tellqvist, Ersberg and Gustafsson are also all better than Markström at this point.. Add the age factor into that and I doubt Markstrom makes the world championship team..

um yes. He is probably the best junior goalie sweden ever had.

As a Panther fan, that is music to my ears.

Hedberg, Tellqvist, Ersberg and Gustafsson are also all better than Markström at this point.. Add the age factor into that and I doubt Markstrom makes the world championship team..

Hedberg-doubt that he will play
Tellqvist-Doubt he will play for BAG
Ersberg-yes
Gustavsson-no

;)

STHLM:

You shouldnt look at final scores as they usually dont represent the actual game. Shots, Quality Chances, Puck Possession etc.

Anything can happen in hockey and a lot of countries are very similiar in talent. It doesnt matter how many top prospects a country has. Can they come together in the end. Does there game create chemistry with others in the lineup. Individually they may have more skill but from a team aspect they may poison the team.

Russia may not have as many top prospects right now as Sweden but what they do have is a great history of hockey and winning. No matter what year they always put a team on the ice that will compete for the gold. Looking at the history over the past decade Russia has had more success at the WJC then Sweden. Therefore they are favoured. That means no disrespect to Sweden as yes this year they have a very talented team but can they play together but just like odd makers they base it on Experience/History.

If you remember, Canada lost to Switzerland in the Olympics..... Sweden lost to Belarus... Do you think Switzerland or Belarus were better? No. They were outshot and chances significantly on Canada/Sweden side but the puck did not bounce in our countries favour.

When a team goes behind 4-0 they try to take chances more which can end up showing like 8-0. Doesnt mean anything. They had to play a different style of game because they were so far behind already. Better coaching / preparation can fix that. But thats til they meet again.

The WJC is for fun. Its a great tourny to see great skill and heart. Everyone loves to represent their country and its what makes it a great tournament. Enjoy it..

Russia, Canada will always be favoured going in.. But, I think USA is the team to beat aslong as their goaltending comes through. This is usually a tourny of 19 year olds and JVR is the best in his age group.

As a Note: JVR/Wilson/Schroeder were the best line in the tourny last year. What are they going to do this year..... MSP is way too young right now. If he can have a good showing id be very happy if I was you. In 2 years, he will be more of a force if hes not in the NHL. ie. Look at what Crosby did as an underager. Lindros. They were okay, but not the best player.

STHLM:

You shouldnt look at final scores as they usually dont represent the actual game. Shots, Quality Chances, Puck Possession etc.

Anything can happen in hockey and a lot of countries are very similiar in talent. It doesnt matter how many top prospects a country has. Can they come together in the end. Does there game create chemistry with others in the lineup. Individually they may have more skill but from a team aspect they may poison the team.

Russia may not have as many top prospects right now as Sweden but what they do have is a great history of hockey and winning. No matter what year they always put a team on the ice that will compete for the gold. Looking at the history over the past decade Russia has had more success at the WJC then Sweden. Therefore they are favoured. That means no disrespect to Sweden as yes this year they have a very talented team but can they play together but just like odd makers they base it on Experience/History.

If you remember, Canada lost to Switzerland in the Olympics..... Sweden lost to Belarus... Do you think Switzerland or Belarus were better? No. They were outshot and chances significantly on Canada/Sweden side but the puck did not bounce in our countries favour.

When a team goes behind 4-0 they try to take chances more which can end up showing like 8-0. Doesnt mean anything. They had to play a different style of game because they were so far behind already. Better coaching / preparation can fix that. But thats til they meet again.

The WJC is for fun. Its a great tourny to see great skill and heart. Everyone loves to represent their country and its what makes it a great tournament. Enjoy it..

Russia, Canada will always be favoured going in.. But, I think USA is the team to beat aslong as their goaltending comes through. This is usually a tourny of 19 year olds and JVR is the best in his age group.

As a Note: JVR/Wilson/Schroeder were the best line in the tourny last year. What are they going to do this year..... MSP is way too young right now. If he can have a good showing id be very happy if I was you. In 2 years, he will be more of a force if hes not in the NHL. ie. Look at what Crosby did as an underager. Lindros. They were okay, but not the best player.

So you think that Russia should be favoured because of earlier tournaments results?? If so why in the hell is Russia so favoured in senior hockey??? Sweden's and Czech Republics results from the last 15 years is much better than Russia's. Russia is extremely overated in this board. Of course I see Russia as a favorite but defintive not before Sweden! You can say what you want but on the paper Sweden's team seems to be much better than Russia's. Then let's see what's happen in January...

i get from right place unless you:sarcasm:
12 aug
usa-rus 1:5
czr-fin 1-2 so

13 aug
fin-usa 6:5
czr-rus 2:4
14 аug
rus-fin 7:4
czr-usa 5-2

rus 9 points
fin 5
czr 4
usa 0
you must be dreaming:) PS- silver is allways better than bronze:D

Still, Russia only got the silver because they avoid Canada before the final(group stage don't count) and the tourney's other best team SWEDEN. Canada vs Sweden was the real final!
And give me the link to this "right" site. Because the results I got show that Russia lost to Finland 2-10 not won 7-4. False stories again from a Russian?

So you think that Russia should be favoured because of earlier tournaments results?? If so why in the hell is Russia so favoured in senior hockey??? Sweden's and Czech Republics results from the last 15 years is much better than Russia's. Russia is extremely overated in this board. Of course I see Russia as a favorite but defintive not before Sweden! You can say what you want but on the paper Sweden's team seems to be much better than Russia's. Then let's see what's happen in January...

So you are looking at a piece of paper with player names and you are saying are better then Russia's players. Have you seen all the russian players play? Can you give me detail breakdown on each players visions, positional play, shooting, defensive play, giveaways, takeaways.. Most likely not.

Just because they dont have some good 17 year olds like Sweden doesnt mean they are worse on paper. Are your 17 years as good as Russia's 19 year olds? Proboly not.

Experience is huge. Knowing when to take risks and when not. 17 years dont do well in this kind of Tourny (very rare do). So scrap your paper of offensive forwards like MSP. If you remember your best players last year were Berglund and Figren. What did Berglund / Figren do at 17 or 18? Last year though he was a force at 19.

Just because of where they were selected in the NHL or future prediction does not make them better on paper. Sweden has to look to Tedenby and Markstrom to lead them this tourny.. But I still think Tedenby is too young to be an impact. We shall see though. Looking forward to it.

Here: http://www.swehockey.se/t2b.asp?p=1415239

Now try to enter this link(click on this result). You will see a true score.

So you are looking at a piece of paper with player names and you are saying are better then Russia's players. Have you seen all the russian players play? Can you give me detail breakdown on each players visions, positional play, shooting, defensive play, giveaways, takeaways.. Most likely not.

Just because they dont have some good 17 year olds like Sweden doesnt mean they are worse on paper. Are your 17 years as good as Russia's 19 year olds? Proboly not.

Experience is huge. Knowing when to take risks and when not. 17 years dont do well in this kind of Tourny (very rare do). So scrap your paper of offensive forwards like MSP. If you remember your best players last year were Berglund and Figren. What did Berglund / Figren do at 17 or 18? Last year though he was a force at 19.

Just because of where they were selected in the NHL or future prediction does not make them better on paper. Sweden has to look to Tedenby and Markstrom to lead them this tourny.. But I still think Tedenby is too young to be an impact. We shall see though. Looking forward to it.

I disagree. Last year Backlund and Andersson were amongst best forwards too as 18 y.o.

And if you're defending Russia, Filatov and Cherepanov were best forwards for Russia as 17 y.o.

Also, MPS is better than any russian 89 forward RIGHT now. So you're wrong here IMO.

And also this year Sweden doesn't need 1 guy to lead them as it was in 2007. Tedenby ios a good player, but he is not the main star. MPS, Josefson, M.Johansson, T.Erixon, Backlund, Hedman, Rundblad, J.Andersson, S.Hjalmarsson, Ullstrom, E.Karlsson. There are many players aside from him who can lead the team. That's why thir roster is impressive.

So you are looking at a piece of paper with player names and you are saying are better then Russia's players. Have you seen all the russian players play? Can you give me detail breakdown on each players visions, positional play, shooting, defensive play, giveaways, takeaways.. Most likely not.

Just because they dont have some good 17 year olds like Sweden doesnt mean they are worse on paper. Are your 17 years as good as Russia's 19 year olds? Proboly not.

Experience is huge. Knowing when to take risks and when not. 17 years dont do well in this kind of Tourny (very rare do). So scrap your paper of offensive forwards like MSP. If you remember your best players last year were Berglund and Figren. What did Berglund / Figren do at 17 or 18? Last year though he was a force at 19.

Just because of where they were selected in the NHL or future prediction does not make them better on paper. Sweden has to look to Tedenby and Markstrom to lead them this tourny.. But I still think Tedenby is too young to be an impact. We shall see though. Looking forward to it.


Backlund? Forgot him? Tedenby, Markström and MSP is too young? How?? The do great things in the SEL which are a SENIOR leauge and you say they are too young to lead Sweden in WJC???????????? These guys probably are among the players with most experience.

Robin Figren as 18 years old 2006: 2 games in SEL, no points.

Patrik Berglund: has NEVER palyed in SEL, only allsvenskan.

Tedenby as 18 years old: SEL 2007-2008: 23 games, 6 points(3 goals,3 assists)
SEL 2008-2009 (so far): 13 games, 3 points(2 goals, 1 assist)

MSP as 17 years old: SEL 2007-2008: 35 games, 3 points(1 goal, 2 assists).
SEL 2008-2009(so far): 27 games, 10 points( 3 goals, 7 assists)

Well talking about Experience Tedenby and MSP are far superior Berglund and Figren. As 17 years old, MSP has 62 SEL games and 13 points and Figren had as 18 years old just two SEL games and no points! Berglund hasn't play in SEL at all.
Markström has 28 SEL games not bad either. He also his SEL teams first goalie and key player.

Look here: http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/hockey/elitserien/article3933818.ab

Sportbladet rank Markström as #8 in their list of SEL:s best players. Not bad for a 18 years old guy!:) No doubt, Sweden will have the best goalie in WJC.

Hedman is in 30th place. Not bad either for a junior.

Sweden is too young??? Keep dreaming! In fact Sweden is one of the most experienced teams in WJC 2009. 19 of 21 players plays in SEL. Has this happen before?

Look here: http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/hockey/elitserien/article3933818.ab

Sportbladet rank Markström as #8 in their list of SEL:s best players. Not bad for a 18 years old guy!:) No doubt, Sweden will have the best goalie in WJC.

Hedman is in 30th place. Not bad either for a junior.

Sweden is too young??? Keep dreaming! In fact Sweden is one of the most experienced teams in WJC 2009. 19 of 21 players plays in SEL. Has this happen before?

Don't forget there not playing on international ice.

Don't forget there not playing on international ice.

Don't forget SEL is a senior league...

Don't forget SEL is a senior league...

The point i am making is this.Some players who play on international ice may have trouble adjusting to the smaller ice.This sweden team may be fine on the smaller ice but they may not be.

The point i am making is this.Some players who play on international ice may have trouble adjusting to the smaller ice.This sweden team may be fine on the smaller ice but they may not be.

If Canada can win a gold on big ice I can't see why Sweden can't do the same on small ice. Some guys probably have been in NA in smaller competitions.
Team Sweden is extremely talented and that's what counts.

If Canada can win a gold on big ice I can't see why Sweden can't do the same on small ice. Some guys probably have been in NA in smaller competitions.
Team Sweden is extremely talented and that's what counts.

You could be right.What is the avg crowd of sel games.

You could be right.What is the avg crowd of sel games.

6058

http://stats.swehockey.se/


edit: Link didnt work.. Just click Elitserien on top of the page and attendance stats is right there under team statistics.

Good seeing Hjalmarsson on the list.

From Drew(whatever what hisn name is)

HYPE, HYPE, HYYYYYYPE!!!!!!

AmericanDream I would be very happy with your roster this year. with all 89's you have the most experienced players and usually the tournament is best played by the 19 year olds which USA has chosen. Only Schroeder is the exception but he was one of the best players last year so this year it will be scary how good he will do with JVR and Wilson. Im scared for Canada. I wouldnt be surprised if USA won gold. Personally, they would be my prediction. I think Sweden will be hard pressed to get into the Gold Medal game. I dont think they are good enough this year. I may be wrong but whos leading their offense? Not JVR/Wilson/Schroeder who has past success at the WJC. I'd take all of those over Backlund anyday.

First of all: has JVR been better since last year? How you really know that he will dominate in WJC 2009 too? WJC 2008 is ONE year ago. Many things have happen since that. Wilson Scroeder is definitively NOT better than Backlund, Tedenby and MSP!!!!!!!! Be sure of that. MSP has do great in SEL in this autumn. What have Schroeder and JVR did since WJC 2008? WJC 2009 is a competely different tourney than WJC 2008. You can't say the will dominate because you don't know. Team Sweden has much more experience than USA. 19 of 21 players play in one of the best leagues in the world, SEL. Can you say the same about USA forwards? No, I take Backlund over JVR anytime because his experience in SEL. He, MSP and almost all other Swedes have already played big games. Sweden also have with no doubt some of the best defenders: Hedman(of course), Sebastian Erixon, Tim Erixon... and the goalie oh yes the goalie. With no doubt the best goalie in this years WJC and the best swedish goalie talent I ever seen. You say that JVR/Schroeder/Wilson will dominate this year? Maybe aganist other countries but not against Sweden. Not with our FANTASTIC goaltender and great defence...

Sweden will struggle to Gold medal??????? Maybe, after all we must play about that. But I see Canada and Sweden as clear favorites before USA.

that is not serious talk. i am sure other sweden posters dont talk like that.

HV71 did take it very seriously, well not the last game maybe that is due to them not being able to move on the next round. But the first three games were taken very serious. First game was a dominant win against SC Bern. After that was an away game against Espoo, a tight loss. Both games I thought HV71 played quite well, especielly since they weren't doing well in the league (like 9th-10th position at the time).

I don't live in Jönköping (HV71's city) but from what I could see from messageboards, from other fans I know and on HV71's website, they were truly motivated. They just weren't good enough.

I can't find an excuse for LHC because I don't follow them.

I do know that this is the first international club tournament that I have actually cared about, I think it was a great setup and would love to see HV71 in it again!

HV71 did take it very seriously, well not the last game maybe that is due to them not being able to move on the next round. But the first three games were taken very serious. First game was a dominant win against SC Bern. After that was an away game against Espoo, a tight loss. Both games I thought HV71 played quite well, especielly since they weren't doing well in the league (like 9th-10th position at the time).

I don't live in Jönköping (HV71's city) but from what I could see from messageboards, from other fans I know and on HV71's website, they were truly motivated. They just weren't good enough.

I can't find an excuse for LHC because I don't follow them.

I do know that this is the first international club tournament that I have actually cared about, I think it was a great setup and would love to see HV71 in it again!

You people can continue come with lame excuses. Still SEL is MUCH better than the Junior leagues in NA. SEL is a huge advantage and experience for the Swedish players...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_hockey#Number_of_registered_players_by_country

You do know while they may be 300 million there not all into hockey.
and in Sweden the registrated players is around 50.000 or some. its nothing!
You cannot compare the theese nations. the funds in NA is much bigger than in for example Sweden, just because it is more ppl living there.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_hockey#Number_of_registered_players_by_country
Sick numbers! Big up for the info

Seriously, you're comparing an entire continent to two countries. Yep bright move there. A legitimate comparison of population is country vs country. or continent vs continent. Now NA has 340 million or so and Europe has 750 million+, you're theory about population being relevant. Europe should have almost twice the amount of hockey prospects. Now here's where you go to individual countries, Canada has a dismal 35 million (if we're lucky) in all of NA, so this comparison you keep bring up about NA is useless since USA has 80% of the total. Now you could compare USA in your debate, well half of US (sorry guys but its true) doesn't care about hockey. You always bring up population and about how having a bigger population makes all the difference so based on what you think Asia should be leading the way.


Continent vs continent is an awful comparison. Whilst the US may not have hockey as its #1, there are still vast amounts of registered junior players now. The only country in Europe with a large population that participates in hockey at a high level is Russia - and they produce well.

Population makes a huge difference when hockey is actually popular in that country. If Sweden had a bigger population, no doubt they would be producing even more talent, and be less of a cyclical country for talent. If you notice, the majority of hockey nations with smaller populations produce talents not evenly, but concentrated in a few years. Only Canada, US and to an extent Russia will produce a top prospect every year. Finland, a fanatical hockey country (i believe hockey is#1 there, unlike any other european country) struggles to produce top prospects very often.

Wealth also comes into it, just a large population will not suffice. This is another advantage NA has over the majority of Europe.

I do not know what the argument is even about, but man, some terrible arguments are being made.

Special request: let's try to stay on topic of discussing the Swedish WJC roster, and find another thread to use for comparing different leagues and chest-pounding from fans of other countries SVP.

First of all: has JVR been better since last year? How you really know that he will dominate in WJC 2009 too? WJC 2008 is ONE year ago. Many things have happen since that. Wilson Scroeder is definitively NOT better than Backlund, Tedenby and MSP!!!!!!!! Be sure of that. MSP has do great in SEL in this autumn. What have Schroeder and JVR did since WJC 2008? WJC 2009 is a competely different tourney than WJC 2008. You can't say the will dominate because you don't know. Team Sweden has much more experience than USA. 19 of 21 players play in one of the best leagues in the world, SEL. Can you say the same about USA forwards? No, I take Backlund over JVR anytime because his experience in SEL. He, MSP and almost all other Swedes have already played big games. Sweden also have with no doubt some of the best defenders: Hedman(of course), Sebastian Erixon, Tim Erixon... and the goalie oh yes the goalie. With no doubt the best goalie in this years WJC and the best swedish goalie talent I ever seen. You say that JVR/Schroeder/Wilson will dominate this year? Maybe aganist other countries but not against Sweden. Not with our FANTASTIC goaltender and great defence...

Sweden will struggle to Gold medal??????? Maybe, after all we must play about that. But I see Canada and Sweden as clear favorites before USA.
Really?

JVR - 5-6-11 in 6 GP
Schroeder - 1-7-8 in 6 GP
Wilson - 6-1-7 in 6 GP

Mind you, the year prior this same trio dominated the u-18 tournament and were the top 3 scorers in the tournament. I think they've proven their dominance at the international stage to the point that they've earned the benefit of the doubt.

This is what Sweden's trio did last year:

Backlund - 3-4-7 in 6 GP
Paajarvi - 1-1-2 in 6 GP
Tedenby - Did not play

Seriously, you're acting like Backlund-Paajarvi-Tedenby are a slam dunk over JVR-Wilson-Schroeder, when their track records say the exact opposite. Fact is, the US trio are proven at the WJC (This isn't the SEL), while only Backlund is proven for the Swedes.

Then you add in the fact that they'll be playing on North American ice this year and USA is a very big, strong, physical team; Sweden will have their hands full, for sure.

By the way, you questioned JVR-Wilson-Schroeder's ability to dominate the WJC again, claiming AmericanDream can't say that because he doesn't know, etc. etc. and you turn around and claim Markstrom is the best goalie at the WJCs that haven't even happened yet! He hasn't even played in the WJCs ever, let alone on North American ice, there's no telling how he's going to do. SEL success does not guarantee success everywhere else.

I`m not worried about our Offense, what worries me is that we might have a lot of problems with smaller rinks and alot of offensive defencemen, not really a single stay at home d...

If we get it our defensive game going we can go for the gold, if not we`re going home early, you don`t win tournaments in Canada with flashy offense alone.

I`m not worried about our Offense, what worries me is that we might have a lot of problems with smaller rinks and alot of offensive defencemen, not really a single stay at home d...

If we get it our defensive game going we can go for the gold, if not we`re going home early, you don`t win tournaments in Canada with flashy offense alone.

Torp?

Still SEL is MUCH better than the Junior leagues in NA. SEL is a huge advantage and experience for the Swedish players...

How can you say that when Sweden hasn't won a junior gold since 1982?

How can you say that when Sweden hasn't won a junior gold since 1982?

To begin with sweden don't have manny young players in SEL so sel has not been the majority wher sweden have taken there WJC players from but this year it is the majority . Its hard for Juniors to crack the lineupp in SEL .

Anyway i don't think the smal ice will be a problem for them most of them have allready played on smal ice yeas its not a benefit but still all are thought how to play and the coach is very experienced.

Only thing that worries me is the Physical game seen we only have Torp but the rest arnt realy physical we will prolly be ok against Fin Rus Etc But when play Canada and USA then all these players will need to play Physical and not only skate cirkles.

How can you say that when Sweden hasn't won a junior gold since 1982?
That's so true. Many swedes really underrate the class of the junior leagues in NA.

Of course, we have a lot of good swedish prospects now who are getting ice time in SEL, but meanwhile SEL is not what it used to be. It was simply a better league with more quality players some years ago - KHL have taken a lot of class players from us nowadays... The good SEL players used to move to NHL (or perhaps AHL), and possibly Switzerland, but nowadays a lot of SEL stars choose to move to KHL as well... Like I said, the league is not what it used to be so it's easier for young players to get ice time nowadays.

Is Hedman back from his injury/when did he come back/when is he expected back/will he be able to play?

Is Hedman back from his injury/when did he come back/when is he expected back/will he be able to play?

I think his first game back was on December 4, he played a solid 21 minutes then. Game after that ~23 minutes.

How can you say that when Sweden hasn't won a junior gold since 1982?

If Sweden had a team that consisted from players who are making impact in SEL every year, they would have won WJC several times.

The point is that if swedish WJC team has many players from SEL that's impressive, since it's hard for juniors to crack the roster there.

Just for example, last year Swden had 5 or 6 SEL players, others were from Allsvenskan and North America.

If Sweden had a team that consisted from players who are making impact in SEL every year, they would have won WJC several times.

The point is that if swedish WJC team has many players from SEL that's impressive, since it's hard for juniors to crack the roster there.

Just for example, last year Swden had 5 or 6 SEL players, others were from Allsvenskan and North America.
Who had the biggest impact at the tournament for Sweden? Berglund, one of the "others" from Allsvenskan.

Having players with SEL experience won't give them any real advantage. Particularly since the tournament is in NA on small ice, any advantage will pretty much be nullified.

Who had the biggest impact at the tournament for Sweden? Berglund, one of the "others" from Allsvenskan.

Having players with SEL experience won't give them any real advantage. Particularly since the tournament is in NA on small ice, any advantage will pretty much be nullified.

If they are playing in the SEL at 17, 18 or even 19 (or allsvenskan at 17/18) it usually points to them either being an exceptional prospect, a very high calibre prospect, or they are quite physically mature. Thus, this renders them very useful for a junior tournament. It is no coincidence that in a year where Sweden is considered a favourite for the wj, and touted as having 10+ players who could go first round this year (obviously 10 won't in reality) many of these players play in the SEL or its second tier.

Berglund played for vasteras, and i do believe he was not loaned out to them (i could be wrong).

[QUOTE

Berglund played for vasteras, and i do believe he was not loaned out to them (i could be wrong).[/QUOTE]

Yea he was not a loan and most SEL teams tryed to get him to play SEL but he wanted to be in Västerås.

If they are playing in the SEL at 17, 18 or even 19 (or allsvenskan at 17/18) it usually points to them either being an exceptional prospect, a very high calibre prospect, or they are quite physically mature. Thus, this renders them very useful for a junior tournament. It is no coincidence that in a year where Sweden is considered a favourite for the wj, and touted as having 10+ players who could go first round this year (obviously 10 won't in reality) many of these players play in the SEL or its second tier.

Berglund played for vasteras, and i do believe he was not loaned out to them (i could be wrong).
I do not doubt that, most of these players are too good for the juniors in Sweden, thus they're in the SEL. However, many Swedes claim their SEL experience as an advantage for them over the NA junior players.

Fact is, if these Swedes played in North America they would be at the junior level right alongside their North American counterparts. Playing in the SEL doesn't automatically mean they're better or more developed.

I do not doubt that, most of these players are too good for the juniors in Sweden, thus they're in the SEL. However, many Swedes claim their SEL experience as an advantage for them over the NA junior players.

Fact is, if these Swedes played in North America they would be at the junior level right alongside their North American counterparts. Playing in the SEL doesn't automatically mean they're better or more developed.

I agree with you on this. While our prospects playing in the SEL are great, the only advantage they have on NA players is that they get experience playing against men. I'm not sure all of them would be as good playing junior hockey in NA on small rinks.

I'm kind of tired, reading all this crap about comparing nations in thread after thread. And its the same Swedish poster all the time, making us look bad IMO. :shakehead

I'm extremely tired of this clash of the nations in thread after thread. I thought this was an area where you could (to some extent) objectively, while respecting other peoples knowledge compare prospects.

Not some acknowledgementparty where people get confirmation when their nation is better.

And it's also the same people, time after time.

:shakehead

Hmm J20 Superelit yesterday Luleå - Skellefteå

Rundblad 2+2 total 4 games 4+5
Erixon 0+5 total 4 games 1+6

Pretty good for d-men, i really think Runblad would have a shot at the top scoring title if he played juniors all year, that`s why they play in SEL.

Superelit is not even close to the major juniors but judging from Malmö j18 vs Shattuck St. Mary's who had 2 really close games in Minnesota it can`t me superbad either.

I agree with you on this. While our prospects playing in the SEL are great, the only advantage they have on NA players is that they get experience playing against men. I'm not sure all of them would be as good playing junior hockey in NA on small rinks.
That is my main point in all of this. I don't think it takes away from the SWE prospects at all, in fact, I see them on the same level as the NA prospects.
I'm kind of tired, reading all this crap about comparing nations in thread after thread. And its the same Swedish poster all the time, making us look bad IMO. :shakehead
I am too! I don't think he understands that I actually expect Sweden to contend for gold along with Canada and the US (I don't think Russia has the defense or goaltending to match up to those three).

I'm kind of tired, reading all this crap about comparing nations in thread after thread. And its the same Swedish poster all the time, making us look bad IMO. :shakehead

Amen brother. :nod:

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There were reports of Andre Pettersson perhaps not being defensively sound enough to play in the NHL. A lot of you seem to know the Swedish prospects quite well, does he have 'the goods' to be an effective player in the NHL?

Thanks in advance.

Final squad by swedish coach

Goalies:

Jakob Markstrom Florida Panthers (born 1990)
Mark Owuya (born 1989)

Defensemen:

Victor Hedman (born 1990)
Tim Erixon (born 1991)
Sebastian Erixon (1989)
Erik Karlsson Ottawa Senators
Nichlas Torp Montreal (born 1989)
David Rundblad (born 1990)
Viktor Ekbom (born 1989)

Forwards:

Mattias Tedenby NJ Devils (born 1990)
Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi (born 1991)
Mikeal Backlund Calgary Flames (born 1989)
Marcus Johansson (born 1990)
Andre Pettersson Ottawa Senators (born 1990)
Anton Persson (born 1989)
Jakob Josefson (born 1991)
Joakim Andersson Detroit Red Wings (born 1989)
Nicklas Lasu Atlanta Thrashers (born 1989)
David Ullstrom NY islanders (born 1989)
Carl Gustavsson (born 1989)
Simon Hjalmarsson ST Blues (born 1989)


edit: No Moller. LA Kings is likely not releasing him.


Comments?

Don't know if this has been mentioned, but there are only 12 forwards on this list. Usually team's dress 13 forwards at the WJC. Any reason for the missing forward?

Don't know if this has been mentioned, but there are only 12 forwards on this list. Usually team's dress 13 forwards at the WJC. Any reason for the missing forward?

They're keeping a spot open for Oscar Moller with the LA Kings. If he won't be released to play the WJC then they'll name someone else. :)

I sure hope that final spot will go to a fairly physical player. Personally I'm hoping for Martin Lundberg (yeah, I'm a bit biased).

That is a very good group of Swedish D-men on that U-20 squad....BUT they could have also chosen OLIVER EKMAN-LARSSON who would have been the youngest of the lot (perhaps they are saving him for the U-18's) AND who is leading the entire Allsvenkan League (not just the junior aged players in it) in +/- with a +33 in24 GP AND is 3rd among juniors scoring in the league (the 2 juniors scoring above himare forwards)...the only other junior aged player in the League who is in the top 25 in+/- is over 2 years older (he is at +15) ...the 2nd best +/- in the league is only+19;yes Leksands has 6 other guys who are+15 to +19 --but that is not the point--the point is EKMAN-LARSSON is a +33 on that team and leads them all by a wide margin..The nex best D-man on that team is only +16...He simply must be playing well 2 ways, being on the ice for 37 GF and only 4GA in those 24 GP..

In comparison --some of the juniors from the Allsvenskan did make their u-20 squad
and you look at the +/- stats in the allsvenskan for them:

(D) VIKTOR EKBOM -1 (25GP)
(F) SIMON HJALMARSSON 0 (26GP)
(F) Mikael Backlund -3 (17GP)
(F) Nicklas Lasu -2 (16GP)
(F) Anton Persson -5 (19GP)
(F) David Ulstrom +1 (14GP)
(F) Carl Gustafsson -2 (8GP)
(F) Mattias Tedenby +2 (13 GP)
(F) Joakim Anderson +1 (4GP)


So in terms of hese older juniors who did make the Swedish u-20 squad for the WJHC who also have played in the Allsvenskan league this year--it seems they all fall into a fairly close bell curve for +/- as you would expct from juniors playing against men (albeit a 2nd tier Swedish men's league)...yet this "kid' Ekman-Larsson is way way off the charts in terms of that bell curve --the fact he is a D-man is even more impresive with this stat --it is supposed to be a steeper learning curve for D-men---and the fact he is better than all the god+/- men on his own team Leksands by a + number that is greater by + 14 over the best of that bunch --it is all simply a staggering achievement--YET he was thought not good enough to make their U-20 squad...

The only explanation apart from his younger age than most of that squad is his weight -at 170lbs and 6'2 maybe they thought he could not handle the smaller North American rink size physically yet...or simply the old adage that the WJHC is a 19 year olds' tournament and they did not want their squad too young-so they picked some older players --despite what the stats indicated. They know he'll get future chances to make the U-20 squad.


All I can say is--if they felt they could leave him off the team --that must be one heck of defense they have. While it is true Leksands is the dominating team in that
league far superior to the rest off the teams,there is no explanation that the kid should be leading his own team in+/- by that wide a margin over the bell curve for its best players ..he must be doing a great job by his own play.


Or if someone else can explain this gaping anomaly --go ahead...I'll buy into he just
plays on a "super team" for the league so that skews his absolute numbers in comparison to the other juniors in the League --but that does not explain his relative over-performance in+/- in relative terms to his own "super-team"..
The kid must be playing well on his own terms--that is: more than super on a super team.

I sure hope that final spot will go to a fairly physical player. Personally I'm hoping for Martin Lundberg (yeah, I'm a bit biased).

Stop hoping. Henrik Eriksson is named the first in line reserve.

Stop hoping. Henrik Eriksson is named the first in line reserve.

Ok, I missed that. I knew it was a long shot anyway. ;)

hawksfan50:

I agree that Ekman-Larsson's absence from the team is a bit perplexing. Now, I must admit that I haven't seen him play myself so I might not know what the hell I'm talking about - but according to all accounts he's doing an amazing job for Leksand. However, I think Sweden has got their best crop of defensemen for ages in this years tournament and that the competition just got a bit too tough (especially considering the fact that the tournament will be played on small rinks).

In a "normal" year I'm sure he would have been picked.

hawksfan50:

I agree that Ekman-Larsson's absence from the team is a bit perplexing. Now, I must admit that I haven't seen him play myself so I might not know what the hell I'm talking about - but according to all accounts he's doing an amazing job for Leksand. However, I think Sweden has got their best crop of defensemen for ages in this years tournament and that the competition just got a bit too tough (especially considering the fact that the tournament will be played on small rinks).

In a "normal" year I'm sure he would have been picked.

In a normal year OEL would most likely make it. The thing this year (besides the competition) is that the team is stacked with offensive d-men. I really miss Motin in the line-up. Right now I feel that Torp is the only defensive d-man on the team.

We have a couple of two-way D-men as well, which I think will be enough, not to mention Anton Persson (center) who obviously got named to the team pretty much only for his defensive game. I bet he was brought in partly to compensate for all the offensive D-men.

Personally I'm not too worried. If the forwards are responsible on their own end we won't have to count on some super-defensive guy like Motin to save us. Let's score some goals and win the tournament instead! :D

Also, Markstrom, etc. :nod: I think it's looking pretty good, although I REALLY miss Oliver on the team. I said it in some other thread a while back, too: It was a big mistake not to name him to the team, despite the competition.

Oscar Möller will play for Sweden in the WJC. According to www.hockeysverige.se that is... only got a link in Swedish.
http://www.hockeysverige.se/news_show_oscar_moller_spelar_jvm.html?id=4834293

Oscar Möller will play for Sweden in the WJC. According to www.hockeysverige.se that is... only got a link in Swedish.
http://www.hockeysverige.se/news_show_oscar_moller_spelar_jvm.html?id=4834293

Great news for Sweden!

Why isn't in the team Sweden Gustav Nyquist?

Oscar Möller will play for Sweden in the WJC. According to www.hockeysverige.se that is... only got a link in Swedish.
http://www.hockeysverige.se/news_show_oscar_moller_spelar_jvm.html?id=4834293

Wow.

Why isn't in the team Sweden Gustav Nyquist?

A very good player, Sweden over looked him. He had a great weekend this weekend.

A very good player, Sweden over looked him. He had a great weekend this weekend.

Since he's played on the U20 team earlier this season, I doubt he was overlooked. More likely he didn't fit into Marts game-plan, or he simply wasn't good enough with the NT when they tried him out.

Quite frankly I don't know which player he could replace on this team. They're ALL very good. :)

Many good players were left off the roster, Lander and Klingberg who are expected to be picked in the first round of 09 for example.

Since he's played on the U20 team earlier this season, I doubt he was overlooked. More likely he didn't fit into Marts game-plan, or he simply wasn't good enough with the NT when they tried him out.

Quite frankly I don't know which player he could replace on this team. They're ALL very good. :)

I forgot that he played in Lake Placid earlier this year.

How does Lasu look now and in the future? Does anyone have his stats too? Thanks

How does Lasu look now and in the future? Does anyone have his stats too? Thanks

Not very big upside. A 3rd line checker with some skill like Pahlsson or smth. Lasu plays with big heart, is very physical, and knows how to score.

Not very big upside. A 3rd line checker with some skill like Pahlsson or smth. Lasu plays with big heart, is very physical, and knows how to score.

Thanks. How many times have you seen him play?

How does Lasu look now and in the future? Does anyone have his stats too? Thanks

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=5016&lang=en

eliteprospects.com - bookmark it! :D

Thanks. How many times have you seen him play?

About 5-6 times.

Lasu has the potential to become a decent 3rd-line player IMO. He is very good physically for his age and he does have some offensive touch, but he's never going to become a creative player who puts up huge numbers (unless you count PIM).

I have seen him in a couple of games for Frölunda and I think he's doing a good job. He should be a regular player on the team next year.

Lasu is a good hard working player but he's not NHL material...

Lasu is a good hard working player but he's not NHL material...

Probably not, given the fact that Jämtin and Ledin have failed (and they're probably on the level where I think Lasu's maximum potential is). Still, you never know with these young guys...

Probably not, given the fact that Jämtin and Ledin have failed (and they're probably on the level where I think Lasu's maximum potential is). Still, you never know with these young guys...

Andreas Jämtin is a fat whiny pig that only can dream about Lasu`s skating, Ledin is a late late bloomer, really did not get noticed before he was 23-24, Lasu might be a good third liner in the future.

Lasu might be a good third liner in the future.
Why would he? His type is common is NA.

The Kings are apparently going to let Oscar Moller go. Who gets booted?

The Kings are apparently going to let Oscar Moller go. Who gets booted?

Nobody. There was a reserved place for him.

I'd like some info on the following players:

T. Erixon
S. Erixon
Rundblad
Ekbom
Johansson
Persson
Josefson
Gustavsson

Mainly I want what year they were eligible for the draft, if 2009 eligible what projected round. Also any insight as to why some of these guys were passed over would be great.

T.Erixon and Rundblad are eligible for the 2009 draft. They will most likely go late in the 1st or early in the 2nd round.

Rundblad is easily the best offensive defenseman on the swedish team and he's got almost unlimited potential. However, he is weak defensively and therefore he will be a bit of a gamble. He could be regularly scoring 60+ points in the NHL in the future, but he could also be a bust. It all depends on how well he adapts to playing senior hockey. In juniors he is in a class of his own at the moment.

Tim Erixon is also an offensive defenseman, but he has got better 2-way skills than Rundblad and is a more diverse player. His upside isn't as great as Rundblad's, but he's not as likely to be a bust either.

My guess is that Rundblad will be drafted somewhere between 15-30th and Erixon somewhere between 25-40th unless something dramatic happens in their development.

Here was some information about LA letting Moller go in English.

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-kingsweb15-2008dec15,0,882908.story

During the game tonight they said Moller was very excited about going but they were worried about missing the NHL games. He'll play with LA tonight and on Wednesday and then he'll probably leave LA. They also said he should have his ice time waiting for him after the tournament.

I was real surprised the Kings let him go. He's had a bigger impact on the Kings than several Canadian prospects have had on their respective teams.

wow with Moller on the team, they start looking really good..


I can see why LA would let him go, though. This isn't a competitive year for them, and they are in no hurry to get anything done in any respect; standings wise or development wise with Moller... They probably feel that participation in an international tournament like this for his country playing high pressure, important games will be great experience to have under the belt down the road if they are ever in the playoffs. Knowing what it feels like to play a couple of regular season NHL games in December isn't nearly as important. He has a chance to go and find out what it means to be a world champion.

Most of the teams that didn't let their players go are either still hoping to make the playoffs, or the player in question already has winning experience in the WJC, or they feel it is a critical moment in their development and are afraid to let them play against kids and miss NHL time.... Moller is fairly comfortable in the NHL and things are going according to plan. He has the chance to be a champion now. Good move by the Kings for the future.

Mainly I want what year they were eligible for the draft, if 2009 eligible what projected round. Also any insight as to why some of these guys were passed over would be great.

T. Erixon, 09 eligible, 1 round potential, his father Jan Erixon played for the Rangers between 1983 and 1993.

S. Erixon, 08 eligible, playing his second season in the SEL.

Rundblad, 09 eligible, definitely going to get picked in the first round.

Ekbom, 07 eligible, playing in HockeyAllsvenskan (tier-II).

Johansson, 09 eligible, could get picked high, is playing really well for Färjestad in the SEL.

Persson, 07 eligible, playing in HockeyAllsvenskan, will center our 4th line.

Josefson, 09 eligible, has been ranked in the 10-20 range the entire year.

Gustavsson, 08 eligible, creative player, playing SEL and HockeyAllsvenskan.

T.Erixon and Rundblad are eligible for the 2009 draft. They will most likely go late in the 1st or early in the 2nd round.

Rundblad is easily the best offensive defenseman on the swedish team and he's got almost unlimited potential. However, he is weak defensively and therefore he will be a bit of a gamble. He could be regularly scoring 60+ points in the NHL in the future, but he could also be a bust. It all depends on how well he adapts to playing senior hockey. In juniors he is in a class of his own at the moment.

Tim Erixon is also an offensive defenseman, but he has got better 2-way skills than Rundblad and is a more diverse player. His upside isn't as great as Rundblad's, but he's not as likely to be a bust either.

My guess is that Rundblad will be drafted somewhere between 15-30th and Erixon somewhere between 25-40th unless something dramatic happens in their development.

I agree with just about everything except I'd say that Karlsson is Sweden's best offensive defenceman.

T. Erixon, 09 eligible, 1 round potential, his father Jan Erixon played for the Rangers between 1983 and 1993.

S. Erixon, 08 eligible, playing his second season in the SEL.

Rundblad, 09 eligible, definitely going to get picked in the first round.

Ekbom, 07 eligible, playing in HockeyAllsvenskan (tier-II).

Johansson, 09 eligible, could get picked high, is playing really well for Färjestad in the SEL.

Persson, 07 eligible, playing in HockeyAllsvenskan, will center our 4th line.

Josefson, 09 eligible, has been ranked in the 10-20 range the entire year.

Gustavsson, 08 eligible, creative player, playing SEL and HockeyAllsvenskan.



I agree with just about everything except I'd say that Karlsson is Sweden's best offensive defenceman.

I'd say Hedman is best offensive defenseman.


My take on this players:

T.Erixon-Very mobile, smart defenseman with good size and nice shot, 1st round potential.
S.Erixon-He was actually eligible in 2007. Not NHL material IMO. Should be a decent small defenseman in SEL.
Rundblad-Big and mobile defenseman. Very creative. 1st round potential, I will be surprised if he will not be picked in 1st actually. 6'3 defensemen with great skating and creativity don't grow on trees. He's good defensivly too.
Ekbom-Haven't seen him too much, but don't think he is NHL material, too inconsistent and doesn't have some super-quality skills.
Johansson-6'0 185 center from Farjestad. He is doing surprisingly good this year, out playing many older players. He has good speed, skating and balance. Smart player and doesn't shy away from physical stuff. 1st round potential, Personaly I think he will be 2nd rounder.
Persson-Not NHL material, just doen't have such skills IMO. Plus he is small(5'10).
Josefson-Definately a 1st rounder. Probably the best all-around forward prospect from Sweden since Backstrom. But unlike Backstrom, Josefson also has a decent physical game.
Gustafsson-He is very, very small. 5'6. He is very strong player for his size, and weights 180 lbs. He is creative and not sof by any means. I think he can be a star in Europe, but with 5'6 I doubt anybody will draft him.

Has Sebastien Erixon been drafted?

wow with Moller on the team, they start looking really good..


I can see why LA would let him go, though. This isn't a competitive year for them, and they are in no hurry to get anything done in any respect; standings wise or development wise with Moller... They probably feel that participation in an international tournament like this for his country playing high pressure, important games will be great experience to have under the belt down the road if they are ever in the playoffs. Knowing what it feels like to play a couple of regular season NHL games in December isn't nearly as important. He has a chance to go and find out what it means to be a world champion.

Most of the teams that didn't let their players go are either still hoping to make the playoffs, or the player in question already has winning experience in the WJC, or they feel it is a critical moment in their development and are afraid to let them play against kids and miss NHL time.... Moller is fairly comfortable in the NHL and things are going according to plan. He has the chance to be a champion now. Good move by the Kings for the future.


Another factor is that Moller hasn't already won a gold... he's got a silver, whereas most of the Canadians eligible to play in the tournament already have a gold medal. IMO, the second one is less important as the first. There is also a big difference between gold and silver - respectable decision by LA to let him play a big role on a Swedish team that looks to be the early favorites for that gold medal he missed out on last year.

Nice to see that Pettersson made the team. Looking forward to seeing him and Karlson get some early time in SBP :).

Can't wait to see Markstrom for the first time on TSN Friday night? I think they play an exhibition against Canada. If he starts that is...

Expect great play from Oscar Moller

Does Moller return to LA after?