Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell is set to return after a seven-week absence due to a broken hand. The 32-year-old Swede suffered the injury on October 26 against Columbus and missed 20 games, including the Global Series in Stockholm. Rakell hopes his timely return will boost his chances for a spot on Sweden's Olympic team.
Rickard Rakell, a 32-year-old forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins, broke his hand on October 26 during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets after blocking a shot. Prior to the injury, he had started the 2024-25 NHL season strongly, recording eight points (three goals and five assists) in eight or nine games, tying for fourth on the team in goals and points.
The injury sidelined Rakell for approximately seven weeks, matching the initial prognosis of six to eight weeks. He underwent hand surgery at the end of October and missed 20 games, including the Penguins' Global Series matchups against the Nashville Predators in Stockholm's Avicii Arena in mid-November. Although unable to play, Rakell traveled with the team to his native Sweden, where he grew up in Spånga and was fostered by AIK.
On Friday, the Penguins announced that Rakell had been removed from the injured list. He is expected to return to action on December 13 when Pittsburgh faces the San Jose Sharks. Rakell expressed excitement about getting back on the ice, saying, “I'm really excited just to get back playing hockey games. It really feels like it's been a long time.” He also discussed the challenges of rehabilitation, noting, “I'm a hockey player. I love playing hockey. So, it's just different, especially with the team being gone for road trips and stuff, being here trying to focus on your rehab and try to get back. But I mean, there's other things in life, like spending time with your family and your kids. Sure enjoyed that. It’s been really helpful with just keeping my mental battle in check.”
Rakell's return is particularly timely as he aims for a place on Sweden's Olympic roster. A veteran of Tre Kronor, including a World Championship gold and participation in the February Four Nations tournament, Rakell shared his aspirations with NHL.com: “OS is so of course still a dream and part of the goal. The things I'm working on off the ice now should hopefully give results and allow me to come back and play games before the Olympic team is selected and show that I've taken steps in my game.” He mentioned discussions with Swedish coach Sam Hallam about preparations for the Olympics.
Under head coach Dan Muse, Rakell has thrived, playing on special teams and even at center during preseason. Muse praised his versatility, saying, “I think in the big picture, I do think it's something that could be an option.” Rakell is likely to start on the wing alongside captain Sidney Crosby. His previous 2024-25 season was a career highlight, with 35 goals and 70 points, one of the best by a Penguins winger in the Sidney Crosby era.
