Sweden Names Replacement For Injured Markström

Last week, New Jersey Devils goalie Jacob Markström was injured in a game against the Boston Bruins. At the time of the incident, there was no indication of how long the former Calgary Flames netminder would be out of action.

However, within a few days, the Devils announced that Markström had sprained his knee and would be out for four to six weeks. As one of the top players for Sweden at the upcoming 4 Nations Face-off, the rumors began to swirl on whether he'd return in time to play.

On Wednesday morning, Sweden announced that Samuel Ersson from the Philadelphia Flyers would replace Markström. The 25-year-old from Falun, Sweden, is 15-8-2 in 27 games this season with a 2.77 GAA and .893 SV%.

He'll join a Scandanavia platoon that includes Filip Gustavsson (Minnesota Wild) and Linus Ullmark (Ottawa Senators). However, Ullmark's status remains in the air as he hasn't played since Dec. 22, battling a back injury.

Sweden is one of the favorites to win the tournament. In their lineup, they will feature one current Flames member, defenseman Rasmus Andersson. Hilariously, Andersson was all over social on Tuesday night for his interactions with Washington Capitals pest Tom Wilson.

The 4 Nations Face-off will be held between Feb 12 and 20 at the Bell Centre (Montreal) and TD Garden (Boston).