Photo: Bildbyrån
Sam Hallam has named Erik Karlsson in his squad for the 4 Nations tournament in North America in February.
Former national team captain Johan Garpenlöv thinks it’s a stupid decision.
– The flaws in his defensive game are too big in a short tournament like this, every match will be so important, he tells Radiosporten.
In February, it’s time for Three Crowns, led by the confederation captain Sam Hallamto play 4 Nations tournament in North America. On February 12, the tournament starts and the matches are played in Montreal and Boston. In addition to Sweden, Canada, the USA and Finland also participate.
Garpenlöv’s judgment against Karlsson
Already this summer, Hallam took its first six players to the tournament. They are six of our absolute biggest stars in the NHL who get the chance to represent Tre Kronor again. Erik Karlsson, Victor Hedman, Gustav Forsling, Mika Zibanejad, William Nylander and Philip Forsberg certainly makes many Swedes dream of great success.
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But Tre Kronor’s former national team captain Johan Garpenlövwho managed the team between 2019 and 2022, is not entirely sold on Sam Hallam’s squad selection. Above all, it is a player he would have preferred to bench entirely.
– The flaws in his defensive game are too big in a short tournament like this, every game will be so important. Then you can’t afford to make these bigger mistakes that Erik Karlsson unfortunately makes these days, says Garpenlöv, who is now an expert in Radiosporten.
Tre Kronor took bronze in the WC last time
The Pittsburgh Penguins star captained the Tre Kronor line-up that took bronze in the WC last spring. He was named the tournament’s best defender there. He himself is extremely keen to play more for the national team.
– It will be really fun to represent Tre Kronor again. It warms one’s heart and I am extremely proud. The experience from the last WC makes me incredibly motivated and excited for the future of the Swedish national team. Feels like we are on our way to great heights, he said after the selection last summer.
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Despite the fact that many probably do not agree, Garpenlöv sticks to his opinion. He also gets the support of Modo’s sporting director Henrik Gradinwho was also part of the discussion in Radiosporten.
– I don’t think he should join. Erik is a fantastic player but he should be a top three back and then I think there are others who are better than him, he says.
What do you think of this statement? Erik Karlsson is one of the best NHL players we have. Surely he should be given in Three Crowns? Feel free to write a comment and tell us what you think. Share and like-mark the article as well.
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