The Islanders are making moves, and it's all about their promising right-wing prospect, Victor Eklund. Fresh off his stint with Djurgårdens IF in the SHL, Eklund is heading to AHL Bridgeport to wrap up the season. The anticipation is building for him to challenge for a spot on the Islanders' opening night roster in 2026-27.
Eklund, just 19, was a standout pick last summer, going 16th overall. The Islanders snagged him with one of the picks acquired from the Canadiens in the Noah Dobson trade.
Many thought he’d go top-10, with NHL Central Scouting ranking him just behind Anton Frondell among European skaters. It’s safe to say the Islanders were thrilled to see him fall into their lap.
Standing at 5’11” and weighing 170 pounds, Eklund is known for his tireless work ethic and versatility on the ice. Last year, he was instrumental in Djurgården’s promotion to the SHL, leading the team with 19 goals and adding 12 assists in 42 games. His +16 rating was a testament to his two-way play.
This season, as the competition ramped up, his numbers dipped slightly but remained impressive. Eklund finished sixth in team scoring with 24 points in 43 games and maintained a solid +8 rating. In the playoffs, he chipped in three assists, though Djurgården fell short in their series against Malmö.
Eklund, the younger brother of Sharks winger William Eklund, is poised to make a name for himself on Long Island. Ranked as the #4 prospect in the Islanders’ system, he’s seen as a potential top-line asset. With Matthew Schaefer and Calum Ritchie now in full-time NHL roles, Eklund’s all-around game might just elevate him to the top of the Islanders’ prospect list, especially considering Cole Eiserman’s recent struggles.
Already under contract, Eklund is eligible to join the Islanders for both regular season and playoff action. But first, he’ll get acclimated to North American ice in the minors, setting the stage for what could be an exciting NHL debut.