Filip Ekberg (LW, L, 5’10”, 165, Almtuna IS J20, 04/14/2007)
Filip Ekberg is a 5’10”, 165-pound left-shot forward who projects as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. While slightly undersized, Filip more than compensates with his high-end work ethic, skating ability, and elite playmaking skills. His agility, explosiveness, and quick first steps allow him to burst into open ice for scoring opportunities and to win foot races to loose pucks even when his opponent have a yard in length for a head start. In 1-on-1 situations, he is elusive and deceptive, maintaining his balance through contact and often drawing penalties.
Filip’s playmaking ability is arguably his strongest asset. He handles bouncing passes with a soft first touch and can make passes through tight lanes on both his forehand and backhand. His versatility on the power play is a key strength, as he is interchangeable with his linemates, seamlessly moving from the bumper, to mid-wall, and extended goal line when needed. His quickness, hockey sense and puck anticipation enable him to retrieve rebounds and reset plays before defenders can be set in their coverage, which contributes to his team’s offensive transition and scoring opportunities both on the power play and at even strength.
Defensively, Filip shows a strong awareness of his responsibilities, frequently scanning the ice to track his defensive assignments, communicating with his defensemen and providing support in key areas after pics or scissor plays. However, one area where he can improve is his assertiveness in physical situations. While he effectively angles opponents using his speed, he tends to rely more on poke checks than on eliminating his man by taking their hips away from them. We feel as he gains more strength adding a more physical element to his game would further enhance his defensive impact.
At the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Filip averaged 13:35 in ice time over three games, contributing two goals and one assist. He averaged 3.7 shot attempts and 1.33 grade “A” scoring opportunities per game. His ability to win battles was evident as he tied for the team high, winning 61.5% of his 50/50 puck battles. He also completed 86% of his passes and won 50% of the face-offs he took.
With continued physical development through off-ice training and dedication we feel Ekberg has the potential to separate himself from his peers in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images