Former Oiler Makes Team Sweden, Ekholm Left Off Olympic Roster

As Frank Seravalli tweeted on Friday morning, “Salt in the wound for #Oilers fans: Philip Broberg makes Team Sweden Olympic roster over Mattias Ekholm.” It’s a somewhat surprising decision, given Ekholm’s history of international play for Sweden. This may be a harsh statement given that the rest will do Ekholm good, but it’s still going to be a disappointment for the Oilers’ d-man.

Broberg is a talented young defenseman. He’s a big part of the plans for the St. Louis Blues and arguably a solid top-four blueliner in the NHL after taking some time to find his rhythm. Ekholm is a veteran of 925 NHL games.

Broberg has earned it. He’s been a true workhorse for the Blues since being taken by the team in an offer sheet from the Oilers. He’s come into his own as a Blue, handling just about any role they ask of him and doing it without issue, all while logging 22–25 minutes a night.