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Bridgeport Today
By the People, for the People
Eklund Brothers Shine as Victor Makes AHL Debut
William Eklund shares insights on his younger brother's early success in the minors.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:39pm
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The Eklund brothers' hockey talents are on full display as Victor makes an immediate impact in his AHL debut.Bridgeport TodaySan Jose Sharks forward William Eklund's younger brother Victor Eklund, who was drafted 16th overall by the New York Islanders, was recently assigned to the Bridgeport Islanders. Victor made an immediate impact, scoring the game-winning shootout goal in his AHL debut. William shared his pride in Victor's performance and offered advice from his own experience transitioning to the North American pro game.
Why it matters
The Eklund brothers represent the next generation of Swedish hockey talent making their mark in North America. Victor's successful AHL debut showcases the depth of the Islanders' prospect pool and the continued development of the Eklund family's hockey lineage.
The details
William Eklund said he has been closely following Victor's progress, including watching the two games he has played so far for Bridgeport. William praised Victor's immediate impact, including the nifty shootout goal he scored to win the game. William also shared some of the wisdom he gained from his own time in the AHL with the San Jose Barracuda, emphasizing the importance of patience and continuing to work hard every day.
- Victor Eklund was assigned to the Bridgeport Islanders this week.
- Victor Eklund scored the game-winning shootout goal in his AHL debut on March 28, 2026.
- William Eklund played 54 games in the AHL during the 2022-23 season, his first in North America.
The players
William Eklund
A forward for the San Jose Sharks and the older brother of Victor Eklund.
Victor Eklund
A 16th overall draft pick of the New York Islanders who was recently assigned to the Bridgeport Islanders, the Islanders' AHL affiliate.
What they’re saying
“It's really fun for him, it's a good experience for him coming over here and seeing how the game works here on the smaller surface. So far, so good, he's been doing really good, so really proud of him.”
— William Eklund, San Jose Sharks forward
“He's been doing really good things. He's learning how to play this game, it's a different type of game. But so far he's been really good. You can see how much hockey he has in him and he's going to keep doing that.”
— William Eklund, San Jose Sharks forward
“It's patience in the AHL. You're so eager to get up and get to play in the NHL, but you've got to have some patience sometimes and keep doing your thing everyday and eventually it's going to get you results.”
— William Eklund, San Jose Sharks forward
The takeaway
The Eklund brothers' success in North American hockey showcases the continued growth of Swedish talent in the NHL and AHL. William's guidance for his younger brother Victor highlights the importance of patience and perseverance when transitioning to the professional game.
