Jesper Bratt Embraces National Pride at 4 Nations Tournament

MONTREAL, Canada — Jesper Bratt is trading sun-soaked beaches for icy rinks, donning the iconic yellow and blue of Sweden’s national team at the 4 Nations Face-Off. The tournament, featuring best-on-best competition, is noteworthy as it is the first of its kind since the World Cup of Hockey in 2016.

During a press conference ahead of Sweden’s opening match against Canada, Bratt expressed the significance of representing his country. “It is truly something special to be a part of a national team,” he said. “The best NHL players, best-on-best, hasn’t been around since nine years ago. When you put your national team jersey on, you play for your country against the best players from other nations; it’s really special. I’m proud and excited for what’s ahead.”

The 26-year-old forward, a key player for the New Jersey Devils, is making his return to international hockey, having last represented Sweden at the 2018 World Championship. However, that event did not feature the same caliber of competition as the 4 Nations, which invites only the top players from participating countries.

Bratt’s sentiments resonate deeply, especially as they prepare for a challenging start against Team Canada, led by icons like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. “It’s awesome, you get right into it, playing Canada… it’s something you dream about since you were young. Today is the ultimate test, playing Canada in Canada,” Bratt shared.

This rivalry has historical significance and sets the tone for the intensity of the tournament. With Team Sweden considered the ‘home team’ despite Canada’s geographic advantage, Bratt expressed confidence in his teammates. “We have a great group of guys and good chemistry. Everyone accepts their roles, and we all believe in each other,” Bratt said.

For the tournament, Bratt will start on a line with Joel Eriksson Ek from Minnesota and Lucas Raymond from Detroit, which mirrors dynamics he has experienced with his NHL linemates, Jack Hughes and Ondrej Palat. Swedish head coach Sam Hallam aims to mobilize this chemistry to create immediate impact on the ice. “It’s such a short tournament, so they’re trying to position you in a way you’re accustomed to from your regular team,” Bratt explained.

Bratt also noted his excitement to contribute to Sweden’s power play, teaming with elite players like Erik Karlsson, Filip Forsberg, and Elias Pettersson.

The stakes are high as Sweden faces off against Finland after their opener, with the rivalry steeped in cultural pride and historical significance. The rivalry dates back centuries, with both nations sharing a fierce competition on the ice. Bratt reflects on this intense history. “In the U.S., when people think of the biggest sports rivalry, it’s the same with Sweden and Finland. All major tournaments through history have been against each other. It will be exciting to play.”

As the 4 Nations tournament progresses, Bratt remains focused on representing Sweden to the best of his abilities, embracing this chance to play with passion and pride on the international stage. His excitement is palpable as he prepares for what will surely be a thrilling tournament filled with national pride.