Initially overlooked, Marcus Johansson earned a coveted spot on Team Sweden, joining fellow Wild teammates for Olympic glory.
ST. PAUL, Minn - After being a snub for the Olympic team, Minnesota Wild forward Marcus Johansson has now been named to Sweden's Olympic team.
He will join the Wild goaltending duo of Filip Gustavsson and Jesper Wallstedt along with Joel Eriksson Ek.
Johansson, 35, has represented Sweden on the National stage already.
He had four goals and four assists in the World Championships last year in nine games and even won Silver with Sweden's Olympic team in 2014 when they lost to Canada.
Two years ago in the World Championships for Sweden, Johansson had six goals and six assists in nine games.
“I’m not the decision maker, but I think the way that he’s played to date and he’s played on other Sweden national teams. He’s gone to the World Championships numerous times, he’s played in the Olympics, and he’s playing some of his best hockey,” Hynes earlier this month. “Good for him. I’m hoping he certainly makes it.”
Due to the injury of Leo Carlson, Johansson has now been named the replacement.
“It’s an honor to play for your country," Johansson said.
The veteran winger has 13 goals, 21 assists and 34 points in 48 games for the Wild this year and is now heading to Italy to play for Sweden in the Olympics.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com.
