With a deep draft coming in June 2026, this will be a fun season to follow prospects. Here at The Hockey News International, we take a closer look at Europe’s draft class. Today, Jacob Smeds highlights five Swedish players who may fly under the radar but could be in for exciting seasons. Zigge Bratt (D), Frölunda HC Zigge Bratt was not selected for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup [https://thehockeynews.com/international/latest-news/usa-ends-20-year-hlinka-drought], where competition among Sweden’s offensive defensemen was fierce. The Frölunda blueliner appeared in every game for the U17 national team last season and is likely to get his chance in one of the upcoming Five Nations tournaments this fall. Bratt may have the highest ceiling among the Swedes left off their Hlinka Gretzky Cup roster. Bratt is a pure offensive defenseman who supplies finesse from the blue line. He handles the puck extremely well and has a shot that could belong to any sniper. On top of that, he has excellent mobility and the ability to move freely in all four directions. His skating also makes him an effective puck-mover, unafraid to carry the puck through the neutral zone when passing options are limited. Bratt is a player worth keeping an eye on this season. Douglas Nilsson (G), Färjestad BK Nilsson got just one start at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, as Milo Tjärnlund took over in the playoff rounds. The Färjestad goaltender was in net for Sweden’s group-stage matchup against the United States, a game Sweden won 5–3. When the Americans pressed hardest, Nilsson stood tall and was a key factor in Sweden’s comeback victory. He is a goalie who could very well emerge as Sweden’s starter at the U18 level this season, with plenty still to happen before the campaign ends at the U18 World Championship in the spring. Despite his young age, Nilsson is already a big-bodied netminder who does an excellent job covering the crease. He uses his size to his advantage and provides a calm presence to the defense, which knows it can rely on its talented goalie. Off the ice, Nilsson is also a role model with his steady demeanor and ability to spread positive energy. Nils Bartholdsson (RW), Rögle BK Nils Bartholdsson is an offensive forward who adds speed and energy in the offensive zone. He loves to shoot the puck and is a constant threat from the left faceoff circle, where his right-handed release makes him dangerous. What separates Bartholdsson is his mix of offensive instinct and willingness to go to the hard areas in front of the net. That quality can sometimes be missing in Swedish players, but Bartholdsson has it in abundance. The Halmstad native may not be the biggest player, but he still finds ways to make a physical impact, often more than teammates with larger frames. Defensively, Bartholdsson shows the same drive. He wins pucks, works hard without the puck, and contributes as an energy player. With his skill set, he has upside both as an offensive weapon and as a reliable two-way forward in the future. Ludvig Andersson (C/RW), Örebro HK Ludvig Andersson is a two-way forward with both speed and physicality, qualities he displayed during the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Skating with a low center of gravity, he does an excellent job of generating pressure around the opposition’s net. With his balance and strength, Andersson is a constant problem for his opponents in the offensive zone. He’s a powerful skater who uses his speed to drive hard to the net. Once he gets position near the crease, he’s extremely difficult to move. In traffic, he has the strength and puck control to fend off opponents and create passing options. In his own zone, Andersson shows the same intensity. He wins battles in the corners and has the awareness to disrupt the opposition’s structured plays. Late in games, he’s a dependable option in defensive situations. Vilgot Lidén (D), Leksands IF At a time when many European defensemen provide finesse and offensive flair, Vilgot Lidén also offers stability and a well-rounded two-way game. The blueliner from Uppsala is a late birth and not draft eligible until 2027, but he is already a player to watch this season. Last year, Lidén earned minutes in Sweden’s U20 league, even though he was only 15 when the season began. On the international stage, Lidén has often been paired with the highly offensive Axel Elofsson, where he delivers balance and strength. Lidén may not be the tallest at 5'11", but at 192 pounds he is heavy and uses his size well. Lidén reads the game well and knows when to stay back or when to join the rush. His strong skating lets him play at a high pace, and his passing also shines. With steady first passes, he brings poise and structure to his team. Lidén could be one of the most interesting Swedish players for the 2027 NHL Draft.
