Rasmus Andersson and Tomas Hertl rejoined Golden Knights practice Monday, their Olympic journeys ending earlier than hoped. Andersson, a healthy scratch for two of Sweden’s four games, declined to elaborate on his personal experience.
“You’re always grateful for representing the national team and the Three Crowns and all that kind of stuff,” Andersson said. “From a personal standpoint, I’ll leave it at no comment.”
Sweden, loaded with NHL talent, was eliminated in the quarterfinals by Team USA, 2-1. Coach Sam Hallam’s decisions drew scrutiny, including limited ice time for top scorer Filip Forsberg and benching defenseman Rasmus Dahlin in overtime of the elimination loss.
Andersson did enjoy watching the gold medal game, where teammates Jack Eichel and Noah Hanifin helped the U.S. beat Canada 2-1 in overtime. “It was a great game,” Andersson said. “That’s what we’ve been waiting for for a long time. I don’t think anyone left disappointed.”
‘It was super cool’
Hertl’s Czechia team fell 4-3 in overtime to Canada on a Mitch Marner goal. Hertl recorded one point in four games but cherished the overall experience.
“It was super cool to be in the village, see all the other athletes, hanging out with other Czech athletes. Just talking our language is always fun,” Hertl said. “My family (came). Not just my kids and wife, but my family from Prague flew in. Everybody could be a part of it. It was super cool, but it would’ve been nice to end up a little better.”
Hertl also watched the gold medal game, initially thinking Canada would win in regulation, then favoring the U.S. in 3-on-3 overtime. “Sometimes, even someone looks a little better, but that’s sports,” Hertl said. “Especially overtime, 3-on-3, which anything can happen. It’s like 50-50.” He added he was happy for the U.S., noting it was their first gold in 46 years.
No rest for the weary
The Knights embark on a five-game road trip beginning Wednesday in Los Angeles. With 20 games in the next month, both players acknowledge the demanding schedule. “We have important games moving forward, especially this month. It’s the craziest month of the year,” Hertl said. “You don’t even think about it. You’re just getting ready and you want to play.”
Up next
Who: Golden Knights at Kings
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday
Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
TV: TNT, truTV, HBO Max
Radio: KFLG 94.7 FM/KKGK 1340 AM
Line: Kings -115; total 5½
