Oliver Ekman-Larsson carries the memory of his biggest supporter, gone nine years, into Milano Cortina 2026 as he battles back to Olympic ice. Personal trials forged this veteran's resolve through NHL wars and international quests. Teammates rally around his story that underscores the human drive fueling gold pursuits.

Whispers from the front offices have the Oilers zeroing in on Toronto's Nic Roy or Oliver Ekman-Larsson instead of the more obvious Bobby McMann fit, and it has everyone double-checking their notes. With the Leafs quietly re-tooling and Edmonton desperate for bottom-six punch and top-four stability ahead of the March 6 deadline, these talks heated up right before the Olympic freeze.

The Toronto Maple Leafs hover on the edge of contention, but insiders like James Mirtle whisper that GM Brad Treliving eyes a sell-off regardless of their pre-deadline sprint. Names like Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton top the trade block, with Toronto reportedly holding out for a first-rounder on the gritty forward despite market whispers of lesser value. Even Oliver Ekman-Larsson draws interest amid the Olympic freeze, testing Treliving's resolve to retool for 2026-27.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson wastes no time venting his frustration after Sweden benches him for the opener, making his stance crystal clear. The longtime NHL blueliner expected top-pair minutes, but coaches have other plans early. This tension could reshape Tre Kronor's back end as group play intensifies.

Insiders drop word that the Oilers and Leafs circle each other in trade talks, with Toronto holding firm on a hefty price tag for pieces like Oliver Ekman-Larsson that demand real assets in return. Edmonton's cap crunch and lack of a first-rounder this year force creative dealmaking, while the Leafs weigh selling amid their own pressures before the deadline. GMs Stan Bowman and Brad Treliving know one wrong move here alters playoff paths for both Original Six hopefuls and Cup chasers alike.

Predators captain Filip Forsberg and Ducks' Hampus Ekman-Larsson voice full support for Sweden's controversial lineup tweak at the Olympics. Tre Kronor navigates early results with vets buying in, eyeing a deep run despite roster gambles. Loyalty like this glues international squads when pressure mounts.