BOSTON — Linus Ullmark will not be making a homecoming appearance for Sweden in the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, as he will miss Monday’s game against Team USA due to illness, according to Sports Bladet, a prominent Swedish sports outlet.
Ullmark, who earned the prestigious Vezina Trophy in 2023 for his stellar performance as the Boston Bruins’ goaltender, had been expected to play in the match. However, the illness has ruled him out, leaving Flyers goalie Samuel Ersson to step in. Ersson, who has yet to dress for Sweden in the tournament’s first two games, will make his start in Ullmark’s absence.
Filip Gustavsson, who started Sweden’s first game against Canada, had been in net for the team’s overtime loss. However, after the first period of Sweden’s subsequent overtime loss to Finland, Ullmark replaced Gustavsson in net. Following that game, it was revealed that Gustavsson was battling an undisclosed injury, which may have contributed to the decision to switch goalies.
With Canada defeating Finland 4-3 in regulation earlier on Monday, Sweden’s hopes of advancing were dashed. Regardless of the outcome in their game against Team USA, Sweden is now officially eliminated from the tournament.
On the other side, Team USA will start Jake Oettinger in goal. With their spot in the championship already secured, coach Mike Sullivan has decided to rest Connor Hellebuyck ahead of Thursday’s final showdown against Canada.
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