Viggo Bjorck made a fast start in his push for an NHL job, scoring in his first appearance for the Winnipeg Jets prospects at the NHL Prospect Challenge in Gatineau, Quebec. The 2026 eighth overall pick opened the scoring with a wraparound, and Winnipeg went on to beat the Montreal Canadiens prospects 3-1 on Saturday.
The 18-year-old center from Sweden is aiming to earn a roster spot this fall. He said his focus is on performing well at the rookie tournament and carrying that into training camp. Bjorck signed a three-year, entry-level contract on July 13 after finishing his season in Sweden.
Bjorck’s Impressive Track Record
Bjorck played last season with Djurgardens IF, collecting 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in 42 games, plus three points in three playoff games. The year before, he set a Sweden U20 Nationell regular-season scoring record for a 16-year-old with 74 points (27 goals, 47 assists) in 42 games. He also brings extensive international experience: gold at the 2026 World Junior Championship with nine points in seven games, silver at the 2025 Under-18 World Championship, bronze at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and six points in eight games at the 2026 IIHF World Championship. He is listed at 5-foot-9 and 177 pounds.
A full-time NHL jump at 18 is uncommon. If Bjorck makes Winnipeg’s opening night lineup, he would become the first Jets draft pick to do so since the franchise’s 2011 relocation, matching the feat last achieved by Patrik Laine in 2016.
Coaches noted Bjorck’s poise, competitiveness, and impact on special teams. He also logged power-play time with fellow first-rounder Brayden Yager, and the duo showed quick chemistry despite limited practice together. Bjorck said he is concentrating on learning the team’s system, getting game-ready minutes, and staying grounded while adapting to the expectations that come with being a high draft pick in a Canadian market.
Whether he starts the season in the NHL or not, Bjorck is expected to remain in North America, with AHL Manitoba an option for further development. His journey is one to watch as he aims to make a significant impact in the NHL.