Jets' Viggo Bjorck makes crucial decision on team for upcoming season - Yahoo Sports Canada
Viggo Bjorck, the Winnipeg Jets‘ No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has made a significant decision regarding his plans for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Bjorck is departing from his Swedish club team, Djurgarden IF, a move that suggests his intention to compete for a spot on the Jets’ roster during training camp.
The announcement from Djurgarden IF on Saturday night confirmed Bjorck’s departure. Sport director Marcus Due-Boje stated that while the club would have preferred him to stay for another season, they respect his decision to move to a new club. This development opens a path for Bjorck to sign an entry-level contract with the Jets and pursue an opportunity to make the team’s opening night roster.
Bjorck’s Profile and Potential Impact
Despite being considered relatively small for an NHL center, standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 172 pounds, Bjorck has garnered significant attention for his play. He served as the first-line center for the Swedish senior national team at the World Championships in May, demonstrating his ability to perform at a high level against experienced competition.
Matt Larkin, a prospect analyst, has praised Bjorck’s fearless intensity, noting his capacity to compete effectively against larger opponents. Larkin highlighted Bjorck’s playmaking skills, his ability to enhance his linemates’ performance, and his effectiveness in facilitating power plays. Additionally, Bjorck possesses a deceptively dangerous shot and a high hockey IQ, which contributes to a maturity in his game beyond his years.
Steven Ellis, another prospect analyst, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Bjorck’s lack of size but emphasizing that it has not hindered his performance. Ellis drew a comparison to a younger Zach Benson, noting Bjorck’s quick and accurate shot, particularly on the power play, and his knack for finding dangerous positions on the ice.
Bjorck was a highly regarded prospect throughout his draft year, finishing as the No. 9 player available according to Daily Faceoff’s prospect analyst Steven Ellis. His performance at the IIHF U20 World Junior Championships further showcased his talent, where he recorded nine points in seven contests, contributing to Sweden’s gold medal victory.
Path to the Jets Roster
The decision to leave Djurgarden IF indicates Bjorck’s clear intention to head to North America for the Jets’ training camp. This move suggests he aims to make the Jets roster straight out of camp. The Jets’ management, including Kevin Cheveldayoff and Mark Hillier, have expressed excitement about Bjorck, who was their desired player with the eighth overall pick.
Should Bjorck not secure a spot on the Jets’ roster immediately, the option remains for him to return to Sweden on loan and play for Djurgarden. During the 2025-26 season, Bjorck recorded 15 points, with six goals and nine assists, in 42 regular season games in the SHL for Djurgarden. He also added three points in three postseason games. At the World Championships in May, he registered six points in eight games, demonstrating his capability against NHL-caliber talent.
The Jets are exploring various trade opportunities to strengthen their roster, particularly at the center position. While acquiring a center could serve as a temporary solution if prospects like Bjorck or Brayden Yager are not immediately ready, the team is also mindful of not overpaying for short-term solutions. Bjorck’s commitment to North America signals his readiness to compete for a permanent role with the Winnipeg Jets.
Source: ca.sports.yahoo.com
