Norwegian talent on the rise
Eskild Bakke Olsen and Petter Vesterheim, both free agents after their contracts expired, have emerged as coveted prospects following a standout showing at the recent IIHF World Championship, where Norway secured a bronze medal.
The 24‑year‑old Bakke Olsen, a 6‑foot‑2, 203‑pound right‑shot center, contributed as Norway’s fourth‑leading scorer and previously skated for Linköping in the Swedish Hockey League. His size, shot and playmaking have made him an attractive target for teams seeking depth at center.
Vesterheim, 21, brings a 5‑foot‑11, 183‑pound left‑shot profile renowned for slick puckhandling and vision. He spent the last season with Malmö in Sweden’s top division and was a key playmaker alongside Red Wings prospect Michael Brandsegg‑Nygard during the tournament.
Scouts from several NHL clubs have taken notice, and the Detroit Red Wings, who have publicly acknowledged a need for additional center depth, are among the teams reportedly pursuing the Norwegian duo.
The Red Wings recently inked forward Noah Dower Nilsson to an entry‑level contract, a move that underscores the franchise’s intent to bolster its forward ranks ahead of the upcoming season.
Both players are expected to command entry‑level deals if they sign with an NHL organization, a pathway that could see them join the Red Wings’ roster or another team looking to add youthful, skilled center talent.