Henrik Sedin has been forced to drop out of the Olympics due to bruised ribs according to reports. The news comes on the heels of Steven Stamkos‘ announcement that he too will miss the Olympics for Canada.
The loss is a serious blow to Sweden and comes just days before NHLers are scheduled to fly out to Sochi. The Canucks captain has 40 points through 52 games with Vancouver and will be sorely missed.
While original reports had suggested that Mikael Backlund of the Calgary Flames would take Henrik’s place on the roster, Marcus Johansson has been officially selected to fill in.
The Washington Capitals forward has 7 goals and 36 points through 58 games this season. This marks Johansson’s first trip to the Winter Olympics and joins teammate Nicklas Backstrom.
Henrik’s absence means Daniel Sedin will have to seek out a medal without his brother. The Sedin twins’ chemistry is something special. Without the Vancouver Canucks stars together, Sweden will have some line juggling to do to heading into Sweden’s first game on Valentine’s Day.
Finnish forward and Minnesota Wild’s captain Mikko Koivu may be the next casualty. The center continues to recover from ankle surgery, but his participation in Sochi is becoming more and more doubtful.
