Get ready for a major shift in Victor Eklund’s hockey journey—the rising star is set to cross the Atlantic and play in North America next season, and this move could be a game-changer for both him and the New York Islanders. But here’s where it gets intriguing: will he lace up his skates for the big leagues in New York, or will he start in the minors as the Islanders’ farm team relocates to Hamilton? Let’s dive into the details.
By Brian La Rose | February 9, 2026 6:58 pm
Victor Eklund, the Islanders’ promising prospect, has had an impressive post-draft season. After making his SHL debut with Djurgardens, the 19-year-old has racked up 16 points in 34 games while averaging 14:38 of ice time—no small feat for a player stepping into Sweden’s top league for the first time. But here’s the twist: despite his solid performance at home, the Islanders seem to have bigger plans for him across the pond.
According to Stefan Rosner of The Hockey News (Twitter link), Eklund is expected to play in North America next season, either with the Islanders or their AHL affiliate. Speaking of which, the farm team is reportedly moving from Bridgeport to Hamilton for the 2026-27 season, adding another layer of change to Eklund’s transition.
Drafted 16th overall in June—part of the Islanders’ back-to-back picks acquired in the Noah Dobson trade—Eklund was a steal. Many experts had him pegged as a top-10 pick, so the Isles were undoubtedly thrilled to land him where they did. Last season, he helped Djurgardens earn a promotion from the Allsvenskan to the SHL, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure.
And this is the part most people miss: Eklund isn’t just a standout in the SHL. He also served as an alternate captain for Sweden at the World Juniors, where his team clinched their first gold medal in 14 years. He tied for fourth in team scoring with eight points (2 goals, 6 assists) in seven games—a slight improvement over his 2024-25 performance (6 points in 7 games). But here’s the controversial question: Is Eklund ready for the NHL, or would a stint in the minors better prepare him for the rigors of North American hockey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
One thing’s for sure: Eklund’s three-year entry-level contract, which technically began this season, will slide since he’s not playing in ten or more NHL games this year. This means he’ll still have three years left on his deal when he makes his North American debut next season. And this is the part that sparks debate: Will this extra time under contract give him the flexibility to develop at his own pace, or will the Islanders push for an immediate impact? Share your take below.
Either way, Eklund’s journey is one to watch. From Sweden’s SHL to the North American ice, his story is just beginning—and it’s bound to be filled with twists, turns, and plenty of highlights. View Comments (0)
