Jets secure top draft pick
The Winnipeg Jets have officially brought their recent first-round draft selection, Viggo Björck, into the organization. The Jets announced the signing of the 18-year-old forward to a three-year entry-level contract. This agreement follows an announcement from his former team in Sweden over the weekend, confirming his departure.
The contract for Björck is valued at an average annual sum of $1.075 million. This move marks a notable shift from the Jets‘ past practices, as they have typically allowed their overseas draft picks to remain with their European teams for at least the initial season after being selected.
Björck was chosen by the Jets as the eighth overall pick in the recent NHL Draft. He expressed his excitement about signing his first NHL contract and indicated his anticipation of arriving in Winnipeg in September.
Björck’s journey to North America
Last season, Björck played professionally for Djurgården in the Swedish Hockey League, where he recorded six goals and nine assists across 42 games before being drafted. He also represented Sweden internationally, contributing to their gold medal victory at this year’s World Junior Hockey Championship, where he tallied three goals and six assists in seven games during the tournament held in Minnesota.
Djurgården acknowledged Björck’s decision to move on, wishing him success with his new club. The team’s sporting director, Marcus Due-Boje, stated that while they would have preferred him to stay for another season, they respect his choice.
Björck’s arrival in North America next season was confirmed following his departure from Djurgården. This development was considered inevitable, and it sets the stage for his transition to professional hockey in Canada.
Potential path with the Jets and Moose
There is a possibility that Björck could play for either the Jets or their American Hockey League affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, next season. The Jets are currently in need of a second-line centre, a position Björck could potentially fill in the future.
While the Jets aim to integrate Björck into their roster, starting him with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL is seen as a beneficial route for his development. The AHL environment would allow Björck to refine his two-way game and adjust to the physicality of North American hockey, particularly as center is a demanding position at the NHL level.
Playing in the AHL would provide Björck with significant ice time and opportunities to play in various situations, which is crucial for his growth. This approach could help him become a more complete player and prepare him for the demands of the NHL, addressing concerns about his size and physical readiness for the league.
The Jets are under pressure to improve their performance, and Björck’s selection was partly influenced by his reputation as one of the most NHL-ready prospects. However, rushing him into the NHL could hinder his development. The organization aims to give Björck a fair opportunity, and the current rules allow for players to be sent to the AHL if they are not yet ready for the NHL, providing a suitable environment for continued growth.
The situation with Björck is comparable to other overseas players who have benefited from time in the AHL before joining their NHL teams. Examples include Ilya Protas and Konsta Helenius, who both spent time in the AHL to acclimate before making an impact at the NHL level. Björck is expected to head to Winnipeg in September.
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Source: globalnews.ca
