LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Rasmus Andersson grew up in Sweden dreaming about the Olympics. Now, he’s living it.
The Vegas Golden Knights defenseman is representing Sweden in his first Olympic Games, a milestone shaped by childhood memories, national pride and a family legacy that runs deep.
“It will mean a lot, I think, especially growing up in Sweden,” Andersson said.
Raised during one of Sweden’s most successful international stretches, Andersson remembers watching the 2006 Olympic team win gold — a moment that helped spark his own ambition.
“You know, the ’06 Olympics when Sweden won, you were like one day I want to play for Team Sweden at the Olympics,” Andersson said. “And now I have the opportunity to do so and it’s going to be very special, probably emotional.”
The Olympic connection runs deeper than fandom. Andersson’s father played for Sweden at the 1992 Winter Games, something the younger Andersson said wasn’t heavily discussed while he was growing up.
“He kind of didn’t really mention it a whole lot when we grew up and then he’s like, ‘Well, you know, I played Olympics,’” Andersson said. “We were like, what did you actually?”
His father’s understated approach stuck with him. Rather than highlight his own accomplishments, he emphasized perspective.
“He keeps telling you just enjoy the moment,” Andersson said. “It’s the coolest thing you’ll probably experience.”
Now 29 and a father of two, Andersson said parenthood has reshaped how he handles the pressures of professional hockey.
“Playing a bad game or something like that, it doesn’t really affect you the same way as it used to because when they wake up they’re always happy to see you,” he said.
His son is already developing his own love for the sport.
“My son’s starting to love hockey too,” Andersson said. “He watches every game I play and he’s just so excited for me.”
While Sweden fell to the United States on the Olympic stage, Andersson’s debut still carried personal weight — a childhood dream realized and a family legacy continuing in front of a global audience.
For Andersson, the moment is bigger than a matchup.
It’s about home, perspective and wearing the sweater he once watched from afar.
-
Flames insider says Rasmus Andersson gives Golden Knights a blue-line boost
Calgary reporter Ryan Pike says Rasmus Andersson was a “gigantic” piece for the Flames and believes his instincts, shot and fire make him a perfect fit for Vegas’ Stanley Cup push.
Local students win first-ever 'Little Raiders Challenge'
Richard Bryan Elementary beat out over 250 schools across the valley for a day spent with the Silver and Black.
Knights in the Morning: Reilly Smith looks to reach 1,000 games
Reilly Smith has played in 965 NHL games in his career and looks to reach 1,000 with the Vegas Golden Knights.
Jake Evans scores in overtime to lift Canadiens past Golden Knights 3-2
Pavel Dorofeyev scored both goals for the Golden Knights, who lost their third straight game against Montreal, dating back to last season.
