Björck Emerges as Top-10 Prospect for 2026 NHL Draft

Swedish center Björck has moved from a third-line wing to centering Djurgården’s top line in the SHL and contributes on special teams. His breakout season, combined with strong showings at the World Juniors and senior World Championship, places him firmly in the top-10 conversation for the 2026 NHL Draft.

New York Times

Björck broke the J18 scoring record at 15 and the J20 record at 16, doing so alongside his older brother Wilson. After Djurgården’s promotion to the SHL, he moved to a top-line center role. At the most recent World Juniors he helped Sweden win gold, posted nine points, led the tournament in draws and played every game. At the senior World Championship he scored in his first two games and contributed on the power play.

New York Times

NHL Central Scouting listed Björck at 5-9, while Swedish scouts placed him at 5-10. Some analysts described him as a “late-first/early-second” prospect, citing his smaller stature and occasional turnovers. The authors argue he merits a top-10 slot and could be the No. 2 center in the class, highlighting his face-off skill, two-way play and advanced hockey sense.

New York Times

The primary discrepancy lies between the NHL Central Scouting (5-9) and Swedish ranking (5-10). No definitive height, weight, or combine measurements have been released, leaving his exact draft position and physical profile uncertain.

New York Times

If selected in the top-10, Björck would reinforce Sweden’s reputation for producing elite playmaking centers and provide a versatile two-way forward. His transition from junior to senior international play suggests NHL readiness. He is slated to attend the NHL Draft Combine for measurements and on-ice testing, with further scouting before the late-June draft.

New York Times

• “Björck is a highly talented, intelligent and competitive playmaking center who made headlines for breaking the J18 scoring record as a 15-year-old two years ago and the J20 scoring record as a 16-year-old last year.” — Gavin McKenna & Ivar Stenberg, NHL Draft Analysts, The New York Times

New York Times

• “He was also one of the best forwards at the World Juniors, leading Sweden to their first gold since 2012 and performing in all seven of their games; he took the most draws, registered nine points and was a go-to player for them in all situations.” — Gavin McKenna & Ivar Stenberg

New York Times

• “He runs the half wall/flank on the power play with poise and comfort.” — Gavin McKenna & Ivar Stenberg

New York Times

• “He processes the play faster than his peers and often makes quick reads with the puck before it has even landed on his stick.” — Gavin McKenna & Ivar Stenberg

New York Times