Jets 'Top Pick Viggo Björck Makes Big Decision On His 2026-27 Season

Many observers around hockey feel that the Winnipeg Jets got a steal with Viggo Björck at the 8th overall pick in this year's NHL Entry Draft. It was thought, however, that the 18-year-old talented Swedish center would stay at Djurgården for another season. He has made a surprise decision: Björck is coming to the NHL and the Jets for the 2026-27 season.

Viggo Björck is leaving Djurgården to pursue NHL opportunities with the Winnipeg Jets. https://t.co/ybuHbLKlTu

— Murat Ates (@WPGMurat) July 11, 2026

"We wish Viggo the best of luck in his new club and respect his decision, even though we would have loved to see him in Djurgården for one more season," said sports director Marcus Due-Boje. 

Björck helped lead the junior team to the Swedish Junior League title this spring, joining them for part of their playoffs and simply having his way, with eight goals and 20 points in nine games. He had played top-line center for Djurgårdens in the SHL and their playoffs.

He was also Sweden’s first-line center at the World Championship this spring, and the elite playmaker racked up a goal and six points in eight games.

He showed his superior skills at the Jets Development Camp earlier this month. 

Viggo Björck has the playmaking and finishing and he has the play reading ability to be a cut above the older prospects at this dev camp. His brain is a step faster and his execution is clinical.

He's in complete control of this scrimmage.

— Murat Ates (@WPGMurat) July 3, 2026

Here’s 30 seconds of Viggo Björck doing stuff at Jets Development Camp as Viggomania continues to grip Winnipeg. pic.twitter.com/kMcaCY1pxZ

— Dave Minuk (@ICdave) July 3, 2026

Björck, even at age 18, could very well step right in as Winnipeg's second-line center this season.