San Jose Sharks forward William Eklund has accepted his invitation to play for Team Sweden at the 2025 IIHF World Championship.
“[I said yes] as quick as I can,” Eklund said. “Right away, yes.”
This tournament is hosted in Stockholm, Sweden, meaning Eklund and his teammates will play in front of their home nation’s fans.
Eklund confirms he will play for Sweden at the World Championship. Says he said yes right away. #SJSharks— Max Miller (@Real_Max_Miller) April 9, 2025
”It’s huge. [It is] always a huge honor for me to represent the country. [It’s] something I grew up wanting to do,” Eklund said. “[It’s] something that I think every kid growing up wanted to do.”
The Sharks winger hasn’t played for his home nation since the 2022 World Juniors. He was a candidate to make Sweden’s Four Nations roster but didn’t make the cut.
Eklund has had a breakout season for the San Jose Sharks with a career-high 55 points (17 goals, 38 assists). He’s been a prominent fixture for Warsofsky all season.
“It’s really important, especially being in Sweden. I know Eky will be excited about that. You go from regular season, and then, really, worlds are just playoffs. That’s how you have to approach it,” Warsofsky said. “It’ll be good for a guy like Eklund to play in that environment. To play in that situation it will be a great experience for him and how he needs to play.”
Goalies beware, William Eklund is a magician 🪄 pic.twitter.com/EXQR3M3oQr— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 28, 2025
The event will take place from May 9-25 and will be primarily hosted in Stockholm, Sweden.
Eklund’s Olympic chances can be boosted at worlds
Much like the 2024 tournament for the Four Naitons, the 2025 World Championship can give players a direct line to their national team. With the 2026 Winter Olympics right around the corner, Eklund can perform well in front of the people in charge of making the roster.
A Swede team, indeed. 🇸🇪
Sweden's roster for #4Nations Face-Off is here!
Presented by #svenskaspel pic.twitter.com/zmV0E3CTo7— NHL (@NHL) December 4, 2024
Many experts predict Eklund will make Sweden’s 2026 Olympic roster, including NHL.com.
The San Jose Sharks forward isn’t considering his chances at the Olympics but understands the tournament can help his case.
“I don’t know. I’m just trying to play my best and be the best player I can out there,” Eklund said. “Let’s see what happens. My play for my country is the biggest thing here.”
2025 NHL Draft prospect Victor Eklund could join the Sharks forward at Worlds. Victor is being considered a top-ten pick at the upcoming draft.
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