Joel Eriksson Ek Bio
Joel Eriksson Ek is a Swedish professional ice hockey centre currently playing for the Minnesota Wild in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 29, 1997, in Karlstad, Sweden, Eriksson Ek has established himself as a key player since beginning his NHL career in the 2016-2017 season. Known for his strong two-way play, he has contributed significantly to both offense and defense for the Wild and has represented Sweden internationally, earning a gold medal at the 2017 IIHF World Championship.
Early Life and Background
Joel Eriksson Ek was born and raised in Karlstad, Sweden, to parents Clas Eriksson and Anna Ek. Coming from a hockey family, his father Clas played professionally with Färjestad BK for 13 seasons, influencing Joel’s early involvement in the sport. Growing up, Eriksson Ek admired Peter Forsberg for his skill and dedication to hockey.
Eriksson Ek played junior hockey with Färjestad BK in the J18 Elit and J20 Nationell leagues. While playing in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) as a teenager, he attended Karlstad Fria Läroverk for his high school education. His early exposure to competitive hockey in Sweden laid the foundation for his professional career.
Path to Hockey
Eriksson Ek began his professional career with Färjestad BK in 2014, splitting time between the junior and senior teams. During the 2014-15 season, he scored four goals and two assists in the SHL while recording 21 goals and 32 points in 25 games for the junior team. His strong performance led to a three-year contract extension with Färjestad BK in January 2015.
Leading up to the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Eriksson Ek was ranked among the top international skaters and was selected 20th overall by the Minnesota Wild. He signed a three-year entry-level contract but returned to Sweden for the 2015-16 season to continue developing with Färjestad BK, where he tallied 15 points.
Joel Eriksson Ek Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
Eriksson Ek made his professional debut with Färjestad BK during the 2014-15 SHL season as a teenager. His promising play earned him praise from hockey analysts and led to his first professional contract extension. After being drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2015, he continued to hone his skills in Sweden for another season before moving to North America.
In 2016, Eriksson Ek attended the Minnesota Wild training camp and was initially assigned to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Iowa Wild. He made his AHL debut in October 2016 and was quickly recalled to the NHL, making his debut with the Wild later that month.
Minnesota Wild Breakthrough (2016–Present)
Joel Eriksson Ek made an immediate impact in his NHL debut during the 2016-17 season, becoming the seventh rookie in franchise history to score a goal in his first game. He set a franchise record as the first teenager to record three assists in a single game. After a brief return to Sweden to preserve contract years, he rejoined the Wild and contributed as a reliable bottom-six forward during the playoffs.
Over subsequent seasons, Eriksson Ek developed into a key two-way centre for the Wild. He overcame early scoring struggles and injuries to establish career highs in goals and assists. By the 2019-20 season, he was playing on the top shutdown line known as the GREEF line alongside Jordan Greenway and Marcus Foligno. His defensive skills earned him recognition as one of the NHL’s best defensive forwards.
In July 2021, Eriksson Ek signed an eight-year, $42 million contract extension with the Minnesota Wild, solidifying his role as the team’s first-line centre. During the 2021-22 season, he recorded his first NHL hat trick and finished with a career-best 26 goals and 23 assists. He played an integral role in the Wild’s playoff run, contributing multiple goals and assists against the St. Louis Blues.
Driving Style and Strengths
Joel Eriksson Ek is known for his aggressive two-way play, combining physicality with strong defensive awareness. He models his game after Peter Forsberg, emphasizing speed, puck-handling, and a strong shot. His ability to contribute offensively while excelling in defensive responsibilities makes him a valuable centre for the Minnesota Wild.
Notable Events and Milestones
Eriksson Ek became the first teenager in Minnesota Wild history to record three assists in a single game. He scored his first NHL hat trick in October 2021 and surpassed 100 career goals for the franchise in November 2023. Internationally, he won a gold medal with Sweden at the 2017 IIHF World Championship, marking a significant achievement in his career.
Joel Eriksson Ek Career Wins
Throughout his career, Joel Eriksson Ek has established himself as a consistent contributor for the Minnesota Wild, achieving multiple personal milestones and helping his team in key moments. His progression from a promising Swedish prospect to a top NHL centre highlights his development and impact in professional hockey.
Minnesota Wild Highlights
Since joining the Minnesota Wild in the 2016-17 season, Eriksson Ek has steadily improved his offensive production, setting career highs in goals and assists. He has been a central figure on the Wild’s top lines and penalty kill units. His first NHL hat trick and surpassing 100 goals for the franchise are notable highlights of his tenure.
Other Wins & Performances
Before his NHL career, Eriksson Ek contributed significantly to Färjestad BK in the Swedish Hockey League. Internationally, he has represented Sweden at various levels, including the World Junior Championships and the senior World Championship, where he won gold in 2017.
Joel Eriksson Ek Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Joel Eriksson Ek comes from a hockey family in Karlstad, Sweden. His father, Clas Eriksson, played professionally for Färjestad BK for 13 seasons. His brother Olle Eriksson Ek was also drafted into the NHL by the Anaheim Ducks in 2017. This family background has played an important role in Joel’s development as a professional hockey player.
Personal Life
Details about Joel Eriksson Ek’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He attended Karlstad Fria Läroverk for his high school education while playing junior hockey in Sweden.
2025 Season Performance
Heading into the 2025 season, Joel Eriksson Ek remains a cornerstone of the Minnesota Wild’s lineup. His leadership as the team’s first-line centre and his two-way playing style continue to be vital for the Wild’s success. After signing a long-term contract extension through 2029, expectations are high for Eriksson Ek to maintain and build upon his career-best performances.
His chemistry with linemates and ability to contribute in all zones position him as a key player in the Wild’s pursuit of playoff success. Continued health and consistency will be crucial as he aims to elevate his game further in the coming seasons.