Axel Sandin Pellikka, Anton Johansson Named to Sweden's World Junior Roster
A pair of Detroit Red Wings Swedish defense prospects were named to the country's 23-man World Junior roster
This morning, the Swedish hockey federation released its 23-man roster for the forthcoming World Junior Championship, which will begin later this month, and it featured a pair of Detroit Red Wings defensive prospects: Axel Sandin Pellikka and Anton Johansson.
Sandin Pellikka—one of two Detroit first round picks at last June's NHL Draft—has been enjoying a remarkable season for Skellefteå AIK's senior team at just 18 years old. In 23 SHL games, he has posted eight goals and four assists, with three more goals and an assist in eight Champions Hockey League contests. Given that extraordinary production and the fact that he played for the Swedes at the event last year at just 17, it comes as no surprise to see his name on this roster.
Johansson's inclusion in this Swedish team was not quite so assured, but he too has enjoyed a nice start to his SHL campaign with Leksands IF, with three goals and three assists in 23 games.
Sweden has not claimed gold at the WJC since the 2012 event in Edmonton and Calgary, and there will be a hint of extra pressure for Sandin Pellikka, Johansson, and company this time around, as they will be hosting the tournament in Gothenburg.
