Henrik Zetterberg not on for Sweden practice, missed team picture. Usually means ailing back, will update when know more. #Sochi2014
— Helene St. James (@HeleneStJames) February 13, 2014
Zetterberg, who also serves as captain in Detroit, missed a pair of games in January with a back issue after missing 11 earlier in the year with the same problem. The 33-year-old did play in Sweden’s tournament-opening win over the Czechs, however, playing over 18 minutes while notching the game-winning goal.
According to Swedish news outlet Aftonbladet, Blues center Patrik Berglund replaced Zetterberg in today’s line rushes, skating between Gabriel Landeskog and Alex Steen. The Steen-Zetterberg-Landeskog unit played extremely well against the Czechs on Wednesday, combining for three points and a plus-6 rating.
Update: The latest from the Swedish medical staff, per the Canadian Press:Sweden team doctor Bjorn Waldenbeck said Henrik Zetterberg has herniated disk problem in back. Will see how he is tomorrow.
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) February 13, 2014Sweden doctor: Zetterberg on program of anti-inflammatory treatment & rest, consulting with NHL docs. “We would of course not risk anything”
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) February 13, 2014Sweden doc Waldenberg says Zetterberg day-to-day, “But we don’t have so many days.” Perhaps more substantial decision tomorrow.
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) February 13, 2014