Rising Stars in the Hockey Draft Scene
As the international tournaments concluded in November, attention turns to the rising stars in the hockey draft scene. Jacob Smeds analyzes several emerging prospects who have made significant strides this season, focusing on three individuals gearing up for the 2026 NHL Draft and two players enticing scouts for the 2027 Draft.
2026 NHL Draft Prospects
Alexander Command (C)
Making waves for Team Sweden at the Five Nations tournament, Alexander Command has significantly enhanced his draft prospects. A force in Sweden’s U20 Nationell league, he has captured attention with his powerful skating and adept puck handling. Command navigates the neutral zone effortlessly, showcasing a gliding style that appears both smooth and purposeful. His competitive nature sets him apart from other Swedish forwards, as he fearlessly engages in battles along the boards and drives aggressively toward the net. Command’s early season statistics are compelling, with 11 goals and 22 points recorded in just 14 matches within Sweden’s top junior league. His contributions extended to the U18 team at the international level, where he consistently performed in all four games recently. Despite missing the Hlinka Gretzky Cup roster earlier this year due to illness, he is expected to feature prominently in the national team’s future outings.
Elton Hermansson (RW)
Elton Hermansson entered the season with elevated expectations, and his performance in Sweden’s second-tier league has solidified his status. Displaying remarkable offensive prowess, Hermansson has also demonstrated an unexpected commitment to defense. While he may not be a leading candidate for the Selke Trophy, his ability to adapt to professional competition reflects significant improvement in his two-way game early this season. Continuing to refine his decision-making skills in the offensive zone, he remains a promising talent worth following.
Theodor Knights (D)
Theodor Knights is carving out a niche for himself as a dependable shutdown defenseman, a rare profile among Swedish prospects. His noteworthy blend of physicality and agile skating allows him to effectively time hits in the defensive zone while interrupting opposing plays. Knights boasts a robust 6-foot-4 physique and a distinct playing style, making him an appealing option for NHL scouts. Given his attributes, it’s reasonable to predict that he could be selected in the early phases of the draft, possibly as high as the second round.
2027 NHL Draft Prospects
Olle Karlsson (C/RW)
Although Olle Karlsson remains two years away from draft eligibility, his performances at the recent Five Nations tournament marked him as a standout player. Operating on Sweden’s fourth line in a defensive capacity, Karlsson excelled in critical roles, gaining the coaches’ trust during high-pressure situations. His effective forechecking created numerous turnovers, maintaining offensive pressure for his team. His skating ability was particularly impressive, showcasing his potential for future success.
Hampus Zirath (C)
Hampus Zirath emerged from relative obscurity, having not participated in U20 hockey last season, but he has made a striking impression in the Swedish junior leagues early this season. Described by Sweden’s U18 head coach Johan Rosén as a mix of players Viggo Björck and Victor Eklund, Zirath combines keen hockey awareness and agility with a fierce competitive spirit. With both offensive and two-way skills, Zirath is another intriguing name as the 2027 Draft approaches.
Sweden Dominates the Five Nations Tournaments
In thrilling finales at the U18 and U20 Five Nations tournaments, Sweden showcased its prowess, clinching both championships. In the U20 category, they overturned Czechia’s strong position with a decisive win, and the U18 team secured the title on home soil, triumphing over the United States on Sunday.
