William Nylander Game-Time Decision for Sweden Opener Due to Groin Soreness

William Nylander (groin) is a game-time decision for Team Sweden's Wednesday preliminary round game against Italy. The Toronto Maple Leafs winger did not practice Tuesday due to soreness, which coach Sam Hallam described as a maintenance issue after two full practices. Sweden is taking a cautionary approach to ensure Nylander doesn't overdo it, especially after he previously missed seven games with the groin injury before returning to the Leafs' lineup on January 31 and playing only three games before the Olympic break. Hallam stated he's "not overly concerned" and Nylander looked "pretty sharp" in earlier practices. Pontus Holmberg or Marcus Johansson could play if he sits out, with Filip Forsberg having skated in his place.