Winnipeg Jets secure Swedish prospect Viggo Björck
The Winnipeg Jets announced this week that they have reached an agreement with Swedish forward Viggo Björck, securing the 18‑year‑old with a three‑year, entry‑level contract that carries an average annual salary of $1,075,000.
The deal, first reported by local sports outlets, marks a significant investment in the club’s future talent pipeline, reflecting the Jets’ confidence in the youngster’s potential to contribute at the NHL level.
Björck entered the draft as the eighth overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft, making him the first Swedish player chosen in the first round by Winnipeg. He spent the past two seasons with Djurgårdens IF in the SHL, where he posted 15 points in 42 games and added three points in three playoff appearances.
His breakout 2024‑25 campaign saw him shatter the J20 Nationell scoring record for a 16‑year‑old, tallying 74 points in 42 games, a performance that propelled him onto the international stage.
Internationally, Björck has already collected medals at multiple youth tournaments, including gold at the 2026 World Junior Championship, silver at the 2025 U18 World Championship and bronze at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He also represented Sweden at the 2026 World Championship, contributing six points in eight games.
Coaches and management say his playmaking ability and offensive instincts could provide depth scoring and a fresh spark for the Jets’ forward lines, especially as the club looks to build around a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent.
The organization views the contract as a long‑term investment, not only for the player’s on‑ice contributions but also for the broader development of a scouting network that spans Europe. With his proven track record in high‑pressure international settings, Björck is expected to adapt quickly to the North American style of play.