Pittsburgh Review

On a recent road trip, Sidney Crosby expressed interest in visiting new places. Teammate Rickard Rakell suggested "Sweden," sparking a light-hearted exchange about traveling there together. This casual conversation is now set to become reality as the NHL has announced that the Pittsburgh Penguins will play two regular-season games against Nashville at Avicii Arena in Stockholm on November 14 and 16 for the 2025 NHL Global Series Sweden.

Sidney Crosby remarked, “It’s cool. It’s a great experience for the team and for the fans, too, to see teams that they wouldn't typically have the opportunity to see – along with some locals with Raks and (Erik Karlsson).” The event holds particular significance for players like Rakell and Karlsson who hail from Sweden.

Karlsson shared his excitement about bringing NHL hockey to Swedish fans: “I come from a small town, so I never got the chance to see any professional hockey until I was probably 16 or 17. I think it’s a great thing that the NHL does right now." He noted how easier access to NHL games via the Internet has increased interest among young Swedish players.

Rickard Rakell, originally from Sollentuna near Stockholm, expressed how meaningful this opportunity is: “It’s very exciting, just the chance to play in my home country and play in front of family and friends.” He highlighted how special it will be for his grandmother and local supporters who seldom get to watch him play live.

Reflecting on his youth hockey experiences in Stockholm, Rakell added: "I can't even imagine what it would be if an NHL team came... It's just bigger than anything."

This marks Pittsburgh's second visit to Sweden; they played against Ottawa in Stockholm during the 2008-09 season opener. Crosby recalled those games fondly: “To play in the two games was great. We had a great turnout,” he said. Erik Karlsson also participated back then with Ottawa after being drafted earlier that year.

Karlsson looks forward to showcasing Swedish culture and cuisine to his teammates: "It's obviously a great experience... it's nice because you have a lot of friends and family there." Rakell plans on guiding them through culinary delights like authentic Swedish meatballs.

Crosby is eager for another chance to explore Stockholm with knowledgeable guides like Rakell and Karlsson: “They know the city well... So they'll be great hosts.”