The Winnipeg Jets selected Swedish forward Marcus Bjorck with the eighth overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft on Friday, adding a highly regarded prospect to their forward ranks. The pick was announced during the first round of the draft held at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
Scouting report on Bjorck
Bjorck, 18, spent the past season playing for the Swedish Hockey League team Frolunda HC, where he recorded 15 goals and 22 assists for 37 points in 48 games. He also represented Sweden at the World Junior Championships, tallying 4 points in 7 games. Central Scouting ranked Bjorck as the fifth-best international skater in the draft class.
According to TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, Bjorck is a "power forward with excellent puck skills and a high hockey IQ." Button added, "He plays a complete game and can impact the game in all three zones. He's got the size and strength to play in the NHL right now, but we'll likely see him develop for another year or two in Sweden."
Jets' draft strategy
The Jets entered the draft with a need for young forwards after losing several veteran players to free agency in recent years. General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said the team was thrilled to see Bjorck available at eighth overall. "We had him ranked high on our board and he fits exactly what we're looking for," Cheveldayoff said. "He's a competitive, two-way player who can score and create opportunities. We believe he has the potential to be a top-six forward for us in the future."
The Jets also hold picks in the second, third, and fourth rounds of the draft, which continues Saturday. The team is expected to focus on adding defensive prospects and goaltending depth in later rounds.
Draft day trades
The first round of the draft saw several notable trades, including the Columbus Blue Jackets moving up to select defenseman Ethan Samson with the fourth overall pick, and the Ottawa Senators trading down to accumulate additional picks. The Jets did not make any trades on Friday, but Cheveldayoff said the team is open to moving picks if the right opportunity arises.
Bjorck is expected to attend the Jets' development camp in July before returning to Sweden for the 2026-27 season. The Jets have a history of developing Swedish players, including current roster members such as defenseman Victor Hedman (acquired via trade) and forward Elias Pettersson (drafted by the team in 2017).
