Predicting Colorado Avalanche Players at 2016 World Cup of Hockey

Team Sweden

Again, we have one rather obvious option — Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog. The left wing was an assistant captain for 2014 Sochi finalist Sweden, and is generally one of the team’s best players. Landeskog has represented his country at the 2012 and 2013 IIHF World Championships as well and should be a lock to make it next year.

However, he is not the only option. Coming out of his second full NHL season with the Boston Bruins, Carl Soderberg is poised to step into a bigger role in Colorado. If he succeeds, he may well earn a consideration by his country’s national team as well. Since the 2005 IIHF World Juniors, Soderberg has represented Sweden at minor tournaments, but not at a World Cup or the Olympics.

Soderberg will have to compete with other middle or bottom-six forwards like Blackhawks center Marcus Kruger, Senators center Mika Zibanejad and Ducks left wing Carl Hagelin for a roster spot. If he plays well, it shouldn’t be too hard to sneak by those guys.

Colorado Avalanche players who will make the roster: Gabriel Landeskog
Colorado Avalanche players on the roster bubble: Carl Soderberg

Next: Team Russia