Four Anaheim Ducks Prospects in the World Junior Showcase
By Ciara Durant
Olle Eriksson Ek Brings Home A “W”
It comes as no surprise that Olle Eriksson Ek has somewhat lived in the shadow of his older brother. Especially considering that older brother, Joel Eriksson Ek, wore the “C” during the 2017 Junior World Cup. The timid goalie is ready to emerge from that shadow and make a name for himself.
Eriksson Ek, who was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2017, is one of three goalies representing Team Sweden this year. He has been hard at work, competing with his two teammates, for a chance to possibly lead Sweden at the net at the IIHF World Juniors.
Last year, Eriksson Ek made the Team Sweden Roster at the 2018 WJC. However, he played second fiddle to Filip Larsson and Filip Gustavsson and never had the opportunity to play. This year, he has confidence stemming from his experience watching how things work in the championship. That should give him the upper hand when competing for the starting role.
During the three games Team Sweden has played, each goalie has been given the opportunity to start in one game while their coaches closely evaluate their technique. Olle Eriksson Ek was given the opportunity to start in goal during their first game against Team USA-Blue on July 30.
During Sweden’s first game against Team USA, Eriksson Ek saved 26 shots, only allowing team USA to score one goal. He ended the game with a .963 save percentage (SV%). His effort in the net contributed to Sweden’s first win, helping the team to start off on the right foot with a 3-1 win
Since his debut in the net, Olle Eriksson Ek has not had the opportunity to play again. The other goalies have been given a fair shot to showcase their talent as well. Sweden lost the next two games without him.
As hard as it must be for the other goalies on the team, it will serve to benefit Eriksson Ek. He is the only goalie on the team with a win to his name so far. With two more games left on the agenda for Team Sweden, it is reasonable to assume he will be given another shot to start. Eriksson Ek could prove he has what it takes to possibly be the starting goalie for the rest of the showcase. It could also earn him an invitation to come back to the Championships in December.