International Ice Hockey Federation

Lundqvist returns for Sweden

Lundqvist returns for Sweden

King Henrik here to help Tre Kronor

Published 13.05.2017 21:01 GMT+2 | Author John Sanful
Lundqvist returns for Sweden
Swedish goaltender Henrik Lundqvist talks to the media after his arrival in Cologne. Photo: Callum Ng
Today, Sweden was joined at the 2017 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship by New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. He is here to win.

Henrik Lundqvist spoke to the media today after Sweden’s midday practice today at the practice rink. Lundqvist travelled to Germany last night and arrived this morning, joining the team in time for his first practice with the team. 

When the New York Rangers were eliminated by the Ottawa Senators in the second round of the NHL playoffs, Lundqvist was available and accepted Sweden's invitation to play. Lundqvist shared that he took some time to contemplating if this is what he wanted to do. 

“I spent a couple of days thinking about if I had anything left to come and play, and felt that I did,” Lundqvist said of his decision. “It is always exciting to be a part of this international tournament and among all the great players that are here.”

Lundqvist last represented Sweden at the World Championship in 2008 when they finished fourth. In his career, Lundqvist has participated in 22 World Championship contests with 14 wins and a 2.22 goals against average.   

Lundqvist cited how excited he is to play in this tournament, given that the NHL will not be participating in the 2018 Winter Olympics. At age 35, the opportunities to suit up for Sweden are likely diminishing and with a roster comprised largely of NHL players, this is his chance to compete for a medal.

“There were some things that I thought about in deciding to come,” Lundqvist said. “One was playing for Team Sweden, which is an honour and right now we are not going to the Olympics so to get this opportunity to play for my country means a lot.”

It also gives him a chance to play with his brother Joel. When they do, it will be the first time in twelve years these brothers have shared the ice in represernitng their country.

“Obviously playing with my brother, the captain, is special,” Lundqvist said of his sibling. “We’ve not played together for a long time. It was definitely a factor. It is another thing that made me wanted to come here. And, of course, our goal is to win.”

Something that has impressed Lundqvist is how competitive teams are at this level. With Latvia, Denmark and Germany all in the mix, no game can be taken for granted. 

“You see the results in this tournament and there are a lot of upsets. It is a good thing that there are so many countries that can get good results in this tournament. It means the hockey world has grown and it is not going to be easy. But we have the pieces to do it and I hope I can help this team.”

Lundqvist is expected to start against Denmark tomorrow evening.

 

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