Team Sweden hits Oliver Ekman-Larsson with the ultimate form of disrespect
Photo credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson is currently playing for Team Sweden at the Olympics, although he is currently being hit with some disrespect.
The Maple Leafs have two players on Team Sweden, including forward William Nylander and defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
On Wednesday, Team Sweden played their first game of the Winter Olympics against Italy, and it was not an easy win as goaltender Damian Clara stood on his head.
The final score was 5-2, and Nylander even scored the game-winning goal. Meanwhile, OEL was dressed for the game, but met a truly bizarre fate.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson benched
According to Frank Seravalli, despite being dressed to play, OEL was kept on the bench for the entirety of the game. Yes, that's right, Ekman-Larsson did not play a single shift.
It was a truly bizarre scene, as fans felt that OEL at least deserved to get some shifts near the end when it was clear that Sweden would win.
Why dress a player if you aren't going to give them a chance to shine? It was truly strange, and there is no denying that fans were scratching their heads.
On Friday, Sweden is back in action against their rivals, Finland. Whether or not OEL gets to play in that one is something that still very much remains to be seen.
Nylander is also up in the air for that game when you consider how his injury has been affecting him throughout the tournament, forcing him to miss practice.
Overall, Team Sweden is one of the tournament favorites. However, if the game against Italy is any indication, this team might have some trouble going forward.
Perhaps playing OEL will inject some offense into the blue line, which is clearly needed right about now.
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