Viggo Bjorck, the Winnipeg Jets‘ first-round selection from the 2026 NHL Draft, has made a significant decision regarding his plans for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The young centre is leaving his club team in Sweden, Djurgarden IF, suggesting a move to North America to attend the Jets‘ training camp.
The announcement from Djurgarden IF on Saturday night confirmed Bjorck‘s departure. Sports director Marcus Due-Boje stated, “We wish Viggo great success in his new club and respect his decision, even though we would have liked to see him in Djurgarden for another season.” This move paves a clear path for Bjorck to potentially sign an entry-level contract with the Jets and compete for a spot on the team’s opening night roster.
Should Bjorck not make the team out of camp, the option remains open for him to return to Sweden on loan and play for Djurgarden. This flexibility provides a pathway for his development, whether in North America or back in his home country.
Bjorck’s Profile and Performance
Bjorck was selected by the Jets as the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft in June. He was considered one of the top prospects throughout his draft year, finishing as the No. 9 player available according to one prospect analyst. Despite being relatively smaller for an NHL centre, standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 172 pounds, Bjorck is noted for his fearless intensity on the ice, allowing him to compete effectively against larger opponents.
One analyst described Bjorck as a playmaker known for enhancing his linemates’ performance and facilitating power plays. He also possesses a deceptively dangerous shot and a high hockey IQ, which gives him a maturity beyond his years. Another analyst highlighted his quick, accurate shot and ability to position himself dangerously, comparing him to a younger Zach Benson.
During the 2025-26 campaign, Bjorck played 42 regular season games in the SHL, where he recorded 15 points, consisting of six goals and nine assists, for Djurgarden. He also contributed three points in three postseason games. His international performance has also been notable.
Representing Sweden, Bjorck excelled at the IIHF U20 World Junior Championships, accumulating nine points in seven contests. Sweden secured a gold medal at this tournament for the first time since 2012, with a victory over Czechia. Furthermore, Bjorck served as the first-line centre for the Swedish senior national team at the World Championships in May, where he recorded six points in eight games, demonstrating his ability to compete against NHL-calibre talent.
Impact on the Jets and Future Prospects
The Winnipeg Jets have expressed considerable excitement about Viggo Bjorck. Jets management, including Kevin Cheveldayoff and Mark Hillier, provided insight into why the Swedish centre was their desired player with the eighth overall pick. His first week with the Jets included pre-draft team meetings, an appearance at the podium in Buffalo, and five days at Development Camp in Winnipeg.
The decision for Bjorck to leave Djurgarden IF signals his intent to make the Jets roster directly out of training camp. This move could have an immediate impact on the team, especially given his strong performance in international competitions and his reputation as a high-IQ player. The Jets are exploring trade opportunities for a centre, which could serve as a temporary solution if neither Bjorck nor Brayden Yager are deemed ready for the upcoming season.
Fans and analysts will be closely watching Bjorck‘s performance during the Jets‘ preseason action to see if he can secure a spot on the team. His departure from Djurgarden on July 11, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in his career as he aims for a future in the NHL.
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Source: ca.sports.yahoo.com
