The Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators have taken their rivalry to Sweden for the 2025 NHL Global Series. Scheduled at Avicii Arena, the final game will take place on Sunday at 9 a.m. ET. While the teams are focused on the competition, they are also embracing Swedish culture.
Experiencing Swedish Culture
Both teams arrived in Stockholm on Tuesday, aiming not just to win, but also to immerse themselves in local traditions. Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson, hailing from Landsbro, shared his thoughts on the enriching experience.
Karlsson stated, “It’s been great, I think. Everything is familiar, but sharing this experience with teammates has been wonderful.” He emphasized that the opportunity to explore Swedish culture is valuable. Notably, he acknowledged the early darkness in Sweden during winter months, which some newcomers found surprising.
Team Activities and Exploration
Throughout their stay, players participated in practices and morning skates while also exploring the city. They took time to learn about Stockholm’s history and enjoy traditional Swedish cuisine.
- Organizers: Rickard Rakell from Sundbyberg, sidelined due to injury, played a key role in coordinating events for the Penguins.
- Predators hosts: Filip Forsberg from Leksand and Stockholm native Adam Wilsby guided team activities.
Forsberg reflected on the team’s experience, stating, “The first dinner had a typical Swedish meal, and it was interesting to see the guys try new things.” Some players ate dishes outside their comfort zones, which added to the memorable experience.
Adventurous Eaters
Forsberg praised forward Tyson Jost for his willingness to try various dishes. Jost noted that his attitude towards new foods has evolved since he played in Sweden with the Colorado Avalanche during the 2017 NHL Global Series.
He expressed a newfound enthusiasm for exploring different cuisines, which has enhanced his experience this time around. Overall, both teams are enjoying their stay, blending competition with cultural exchange, making this event a significant moment in the NHL Global Series.
