Two Oilers surprisingly scratched for elimination game at 4 Nations Faceoff

Viktor Arvidsson in particular has struggled this season with the Oilers, but Mattias Ekholm is considered one of the most underrated two way defenceman in the game - to see him scratched is shocking.

According to a report from Elliotte Friedman this morning, Sweden's expected lineup will not include both Edmonton Oilers on their roster. In their place, Rasmus Andersson and Leo Carlsson will enter the lineup.

Viktor Arvidsson has had one of the worst seasons in his career this year with the Edmonton Oilers, nearing career lows in points, giveaways, takeaways, and more. Still, he's an NHL veteran that's being taken out for a sophomore - that's not a good sign for Arvidsson.

The scratch of Mattias Ekholm however is the real major surprise from Sweden, and may even be a straight up bad decision. Ekholm is one of the most steady 2 way defenders in the NHL who had a great game against Team Canada, but struggled against Finland.

Viktor Arvidsson has played through injuries for much of this season, and may even still be hurt which could be affecting his performance. Mattias Ekholm was extremely ill in the last few weeks, possibly still feeling effects of sickness.

Regardless of their reasons, both Oilers being scratched for today's game isn't a good sign for either player. In a must-win game for Sweden to advance, not selecting these two players is a cutthroat decision.

Hopefully they'll be fully motivated coming out of the tournament to bring their best with the Oilers.