Merzlikins Set to Start for Latvia Against Sweden in Olympic Qualifier

Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins is slated to start for Latvia against Sweden on Tuesday in the qualifying round of the 2026 Winter Olympics, as reported by Brian Hedger. This marks his first start since the tournament's opening game, with Arturs Silovs having handled the previous two preliminary round contests. Merzlikins previously allowed five goals on 38 shots in a 5-1 loss to the Americans on Thursday. Sweden, their upcoming opponent, finished third in Group B with a 2-0-0-1 record.