We now know why Team Sweden decided to scratch Mattias Ekholm
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Breaking news out of the 4 Nations Face-Off Tournament as Team Sweden defenceman Mattias Ekholm and forward Viktor Arvidsson have been listed as healthy scratches ahead of tonight's matchup against Team USA.
According to Elliotte Friedman, Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson and Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson will draw in for the Tre Kronor, at the expense of Edmonton Oilers Mattias Ekholm and Viktor Arvidsson.
This shocking roster decision has sent shockwaves pulsating down the league as Mattias Ekholm has proven himself to be one of the most elite defenders in hockey.
While the news of Ekholm's demotion is upsetting, a reporter from Sweden recently weighed in on the situation, explaining that this roster decision is purely a sporting decision.
Swedish reporter explains Mattias Ekholm healthy scratch
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, according to a report from Swedish reporter Henrik Leman, the decision to scratch Ekholm was to give themselves the best possible lineup - a shocking choice given Ekholm is a steady, established defender and an assistant captain of their team.
I'm told it's a purely sporting decision. Respect that people can see things differently, but in my world one of the team's absolute best and most important defenders is being picked - who would have been even more important against the tough USA. Ekholm has given EK65 the chance to shine, and is also assistant captain.
- Henrik Leman, Translated from Swedish
- Henrik Leman, Translated from Swedish
While there have been reports of illness making their way through Team Sweden's dressing room, Ekholm's demotion is unrelated to his health status.
Will healthy scratching Mattias Ekholm prove to be the right decision? Time will tell.
| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 17 | 418 ANSWERS We now know why Team Sweden decided to scratch Mattias Ekholm Do you think Team Sweden will regret healthy scratching Mattias Ekholm? | ||
| Yes | 340 | 81.3 % |
| No | 78 | 18.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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