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Simon Holmstrom has sights set on playing for Sweden after end of NY Islanders season

Mar 14, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA;  New York Islanders right wing Simon Holmstrom (92) celebrates his second goal against the Calgary Flames during the first period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
Mar 14, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders right wing Simon Holmstrom (92) celebrates his second goal against the Calgary Flames during the first period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images | Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

For Simon Holmstrom, the offseason might not be starting just yet.

While the New York Islanders saw their season come to an early end, Holmstrom made it clear during clean-out day that he’s not quite ready to step away from the game — with the IIHF World Championships potentially next on his radar.

“I’m fully healthy and… I’ve been in some discussions,” Holmstrom said. “We’ll kind of see what happens here in the next couple days.”

That alone signals a player still locked in, even after a disappointing finish. For Holmstrom, the abrupt end to the Islanders’ season hasn’t dulled his desire to keep competing.

“I don’t want to be done yet,” he said. “The goal was to play deep here in the playoffs… it’s a long summer, trying to keep it going.”

It’s a telling mindset — one that reflects both frustration and hunger. The Islanders entered the stretch run with playoff aspirations, only to fall short, and for players like Holmstrom, that kind of ending leaves something unresolved.

Rather than immediately shifting into offseason mode, the 23-year-old winger is keeping the door open to extend his season on the international stage, representing Sweden if the opportunity materializes.

Beyond Worlds, Holmstrom’s offseason plans are still taking shape. He acknowledged a busy summer ahead, including personal milestones, but hockey remains front of mind.

“My overall plan… we’ll see what happens now with Worlds and all that, and then just enjoy my summer,” he said. “Have my wedding and then get ready for next season.”

Holmstrom also pointed to the strong Swedish presence in the Islanders’ locker room as a key support system throughout the year, helping maintain a sense of familiarity far from home.

“It’s a lot of fun… when you miss home, you can always talk to the boys,” he said.

Whether Holmstrom suits up at the World Championships or not, one thing is clear — he’s not ready to close the book on this season just yet.

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