TAMPA As the buzz around Canada and the United States intensifies ahead of the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off from Feb. 12-20, is Sweden being underestimated? Coach Sam Hallam doesnt think so.

We have just as much of a chance as any team, Hallam told. Every squad is stacked with talent, and with the round-robin format, anything can happen. Were coming to win, plain and simple.

The tournament, set to take place at TD Garden in Boston, marks the first best-on-best international event since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Each of the four teamsSweden, Finland, Canada, and the U. S. will play one another once, with the top two advancing to the final on Feb. 20.

Sweden previously announced six players for its roster: defensemen Victor Hedman, Erik Karlsson, and Gustav Forsling, along with forwards William Nylander, Filip Forsberg, and Mika Zibanejad. The rest of the roster will be finalized in early December.

Scouting Swedens Talent
Hallam recently completed a scouting tour in North America, keeping an eye on potential additions. Among those making an impression is Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson.

Hes been solid for years, and his offensive contributions make him stand out, Hallam said. He brings a bit more of an intimidating presence, which is great for us.

Goaltending is another key factor, with New Jersey Devils netminder Jacob Markstrm on the radar. Meanwhile, young forward Leo Carlsson has showcased his playmaking ability in his early games with the Anaheim Ducks.

Swedens Strengths
With Hedman, Karlsson, and Forsling leading the blue line, Hallam sees Swedens defense as a major asset.

Our defense is definitely a strong point, he said. The key is to structure the lineup to maximize our strengths and ensure the right pairings.

Compared to Canada and the U Team Canada 4NF Jersey. S. , Sweden may not have the same depth, but Hallam believes the top-tier talent levels the playing field.

The first 20 players on each team are elite, he said. Its about how we prepare and utilize them.

The Knockout Mentality
Unlike the Stanley Cup Playoffs, this tournament doesnt offer multiple chances to adjust. Each game is a high-stakes battle, requiring a Game 7 mindset.

You have to be sharp from the start, Hallam explained. Theres no time to build chemistry over a seasonyou need to optimize every minute on the ice.

A Coaching Philosophy Rooted in Preparation
Hallam, who led the Vxj Lakers to three Swedish Elite League championships, describes himself as a focused and methodical coach.

I might come across as boring, but Im always thinking about ways to improve, he admitted. I stay calm because I believe in preparation.

Inspired by Swedens 2006 Olympic Gold
Hallam also acknowledges the lasting impact of Swedens 2006 Olympic gold medal victory.

I still remember that final goalForsberg to Sundin, then Lidstrms shot to win it, he recalled. That moment remains an inspiration, and with the Milan Olympics in 2026, its a great reminder of whats possible.

4 Nations Stock Report
Each week, we highlight one player on the rise and another facing challenges.

Rising: Rasmus Andersson Sweden)
The 28-year-old defenseman has been producing at a high rate this season, making a strong case for a spot on Swedens roster.

Falling: Robert Thomas Canada)
The St. Louis Blues forward had an outside shot at making Team Canada, but a fractured ankle likely removes him from consideration.

Star Players Shaping Rosters
Team Canadas management, including assistant GM Jim Nill, has been consulting with its core playersSidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, and otherson roster decisions.

Youd be crazy not to get input from those guys, Nill said.

Swedens Hallam agrees, having recently met with Hedman https://www.iihfworldchampionship.com/collections/team-sweden-lucas-raymond-jersey.

With no training camp, chemistry is key, Hallam said. Getting player insights is crucial.

U. S. Coaching Strategy
Team USA coach Mike Sullivan has been holding frequent discussions with his assistants, refining their approach as the final roster deadline nears.

Right now, were honing in on specific players, assistant John Hynes said. Once selections are made, well shift focus to tournament strategy.

Canadas Goaltending Debate
Gone are the days of Brodeur, Luongo, and Price dominating Canadas goaltending. Blues coach Craig Bannister believes Jordan Binnington deserves serious consideration.

Hes a competitor, Bannister said. Ive coached him at multiple levels, and he always steps up in big moments.

The Finnish Connection
Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkovs return from injury was celebrated in Finland, especially with the NHL Global Series set to take place in his hometown of Tampere.

It means everything for a Finnish player to suit up at home, Hallam said.

With Barkov back on track and Sweden hungry for victory, the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off is shaping up to be a thrilling battle for international supremacy.

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