Sweden looks to re-energize its international competitiveness through significant changes to the program, including the hiring of Detroit Red Wings legend Nicklas Lidstrom as an advisor.

This won’t prevent Lidstrom from keeping his job as a Red Wings’ vice president.

The website Expressen reports that Lidstrom signed a two-year contract and his focus will be on keeping contact with Swedish NHLers. He will also be looking to strengthen relationships with agents and NHL team in preparations for the next World Championships and World Cup.

The Swedes were disappointed in the team’s performance at the 2026 World Championships. Switzerland eliminated Sweden in the quarterfinals. The Swedes only have two medals earned over the past seven World Championships. The Swedes did not make the semifinals at this year’s Olympic Games.

Other changes include: Rikard Grönborg replaces Sam Hallam as head coach. Tommy Boustedt will scout in Europe and the SHL and will be involved in the team selections. Jack Han becomes an analyst.

Lidstrom said received GM Steve Yzerman’s blessing before he accepted the job.

Persuading players to come to the World Championships after a long NHL season is an issue for all countries, including Sweden. This year’s team was missing many top players.

Does Lidstrom think he can help in that regard?

“I don’t know,” Lidstrom told Expressen: “When Rikard was the coach last time, he had very good contact with the NHL players and I think he will maintain that. Then I have to help with what I can. Maybe talk more with clubs and agents. We both get to be with and process.”

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Former Detroit goalie Jimmy Howard will serve as the goalie coach for the Detroit PWHL team. . . Laila Edwards, picked fourth overall by San Jose in the PWHL draft, was an avid fan of the Detroit Red Wings while growing up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. She played for the gold medal-winning USA squad at the 2026 Olympics. Edwards can play both defense and forward. . . Detroit’s first pick was Switzerland Olympic goalie Andrea Brändli who helped her country win a hockey bronze medal at the 2026 Games.

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