Islanders Sign Victor Eklund to Entry-Level Contract
The New York Islanders made a significant announcement on Monday, confirming the signing of their 2025 draft selection, Victor Eklund, who was picked 16th overall, to a three-year entry-level contract. However, it’s important to clarify that this agreement does not imply that Eklund will join the team in North America for the upcoming season.
Eligibility and Development Plans
At just 18 years of age, he is not eligible to compete in the American Hockey League with the Bridgeport Islanders, a requirement that would necessitate him being at least 19.
Instead, Eklund has expressed his intention to return to Sweden, where he will continue his development with Djurgardens IF in the Swedish Elite League for the 2025-26 season. Last season, he showcased his talent by scoring 31 points through 42 games, registering 19 goals and 12 assists.
Contract Rationale
This raises the question of why the Islanders would secure Eklund’s contract if he isn’t planning to play in North America right away. The rationale is tied to the NHL’s entry-level contract rules: for players aged 18 and 19 who do not appear in at least ten NHL games, their contracts can “slide,” meaning the team effectively postpones the start of the contract by a year. Thus, the Islanders avoid using up a year of Eklund’s entry-level contract by signing him now while he continues his career in Europe.
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PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
