Calgary Flames defenceman Rasmus Andersson has officially secured a spot on the Swedish national hockey team for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
A Dream Realized and a Secret Kept
The 27-year-old blueliner received the news approximately ten days before the public announcement, a period he described as challenging due to the need for secrecy. "I found out about 10 days ago, it’s been hard to keep it to yourself," Andersson admitted. "Extremely proud and it’s definitely a dream come true to play at the Olympics for Sweden. It’s something I’ve always wanted."
Andersson's connection to the Olympic Games runs deep, rooted in family history and childhood memories. His father, Peter Andersson, represented Sweden at the 1992 Albertville Games. Furthermore, Rasmus vividly recalls Sweden's gold medal victory at the 2006 Turin Olympics, where legends Mats Sundin and Peter Forsberg set up Nicklas Lidstrom for the iconic game-winning goal against Finland.
"I’ve seen the game-winning goal probably a thousand times in my life," Andersson said. "I was nine years old at the time, the memory never really leaves. Since that day, I’ve dreamt of playing in the Olympics one day." He now sees his selection as a chance to inspire the next generation of Swedish players.
Season Performance Seals the Deal
While Andersson was part of Sweden's roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off last year, his place on the Olympic squad was not guaranteed, especially following the conclusion of his 2024-25 NHL season. However, his strong play with the Flames in the current campaign made him an undeniable choice for the Tre Kronor.
His on-ice production has been a key factor. With eight goals and 18 assists so far this season, he ranks third in scoring among Swedish NHL defencemen, trailing only Rasmus Dahlin and Erik Karlsson. Notably, Andersson also boasts a +2 plus/minus rating, which is superior to both Dahlin and Karlsson.
Flames head coach Ryan Huska expressed no surprise at the selection, praising Andersson's consistent excellence. "When you look at one guy who has had a ridiculously good year in all aspects of his game, (it’s Andersson)," Huska stated. "We’re really happy for him. I think he’s done an excellent job. He’s very deserving of it." Huska added the team would be cheering for both Canada and their teammate Andersson during the tournament.
Flames Roster Move: Basha Returns to Junior
In other Flames organization news, prospect Andrew Basha has been reassigned to the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League (WHL). The 20-year-old winger, a Calgary native selected 41st overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, missed much of last season following ankle surgery.
In his first professional season with the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, Basha recorded one goal and four assists in 27 games. The move will allow him to gain more playing time and development with his junior club for the remainder of the season.
The 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano-Cortina will mark the first NHL player participation since the 2014 Sochi Games, adding significant prestige to Andersson's selection.
