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Raymond’s Advisor, Family Explain Why Red Wings Rookie Is Passing On Worlds

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Lucas Raymond, Detroit Red Wings, Predators
The father and the agent of Red Wings rookie forward Lucas Raymond are explaining why he's chosen to pass on playing for Sweden at the Worlds.

Both Lucas Raymond’s father and his agent are taking the time to explain the sudden change in plans by the Detroit Red Wings rookie forward.



Originally, he was all gung ho about playing for Sweden at the upcoming World Championship. Raymond has since done a 180 and declined the invitation to skate for his homeland on the world stage.

Peter Werner, Raymond’s agent, sought to rationalize the reasoning for his client’s change of heart to Swedish media site Aftonbladet.se.

“Lucas and I sat in the hotel and talked about the World Cup,” said Werner, who recently visited with Raymond. “Of course he was eager to play, all hockey players basically want that.

“At the same time, he has made 82 tough games in a row in the NHL against good opposition. I think that despite all the great things that Lucas has achieved during this rookie season, it has taken more energy both physically and mentally than you might have imagined.

“So my advice to Lucas was to listen to the body and the mind. For the World Cup is a pretty long story. Then it will be almost another month of hockey. He needs this time this summer to recharge his batteries.”

Red Wings Played A Role In Decision

Raymond’s father Jean was suggestsing that there was also a role in this call played by the management of the Red Wings.

“It will always be an interweaving,” Jean Raymond said of his son’s decision. “Lucas is always proud and happy to wear the national team jersey and thinks it is a great honor. But now a lot of factors came into play.

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“I can say that the frequency has been very high. There is always a reconciliation about how the body feels after a long season.”

The Red Wings will still have representation on the Swedish roster. Goalie Magnus Hellberg, as well as Grand Rapids Griffins forward Jonatan Berggren and Detroit prospect Elmer Soderblom of Frolunda all are with Sweden’s team.

Former Red Wings forward Johan Garpenlov is coaching the Swedes.