4 Nations Face-Off: Sweden keeping starting goalie a mystery ahead of Canada clash

The team is deliberating between goaltenders Filip Gustavsson of the Minnesota Wild, Linus Ullmark of the Ottawa Senators, and Samuel Ersson from the Philadelphia Flyers.

Among the three, Ullmark boasts the lowest goals against average this season at 2.49, compared to Gustavsson's 2.63 and Ersson's 2.81. Ullmark also shares a save percentage of .915 with Gustavsson, while Ersson trails with a .896 save percentage.

Despite his superior statistics, Ullmark has participated in only two games since the beginning of the year due to back issues, which may position Gustavsson as the likely starter.

Nevertheless, if Ullmark returns to his previous form, he would be the optimal choice, given his status as a former Vezina Trophy winner.

Both Ersson and Gustavsson were part of Sweden's squad that secured a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship, while Ullmark also contributed to a bronze medal victory in the 2022 tournament.

Regardless of the final selection, the chosen goaltender will benefit from what many consider to be the strongest defensive lineup in the tournament.

Earlier today, Canada confirmed that Jordan Binnington will be the starting goaltender for their opening match against Sweden in the 4 Nations Face-Off.

SportsLigue