William Eklund Bio
William Eklund is a Swedish professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the San Jose Sharks in the National Hockey League (NHL). Recognized as the top international prospect for the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, he was selected seventh overall by the Sharks. Since his debut in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) in 2020, Eklund has demonstrated significant potential, contributing at both the NHL and American Hockey League (AHL) levels.
Early Life and Background
William Eklund was born on October 12, 2002, in Haninge, Sweden. He grew up in a hockey-oriented family; his father, Christian Eklund, was a professional hockey player who also played for Djurgårdens IF, the same club where William began his career. William’s brother, Victor, is also a hockey player and was drafted 16th overall by the New York Islanders in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. William has four younger step-siblings, reflecting a supportive family environment.
Path to Hockey
Eklund’s early exposure to hockey came through his family’s involvement in the sport, which helped shape his development. He began his professional journey with Djurgårdens IF, making his SHL debut on January 4, 2020, in a victory against IK Oskarshamn. His early performances in the SHL, including scoring five points in his first eight games of the 2020–21 season, marked him as a promising talent and caught the attention of NHL scouts.
William Eklund Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
William Eklund started his professional career with Djurgårdens IF in the SHL during the 2019–20 season. He played 20 regular-season games, contributing two points. His continued development in the 2020–21 season, where he scored five points in eight games, showcased his growing skill set and readiness for higher competition levels.
San Jose Sharks Breakthrough (2021–Present)
In the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Eklund was selected seventh overall by the San Jose Sharks. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Sharks on August 16, 2021. Eklund made his NHL debut on October 16, 2021, registering his first NHL point with an assist in a 4–3 win over the Winnipeg Jets. After nine games, he was reassigned to Sweden but returned to North America to split time between the Sharks and their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, during the 2022–23 season. He scored his first NHL goal on March 14, 2023, in an overtime loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. In July 2025, Eklund secured a three-year contract extension with the Sharks, signaling the team’s confidence in his future contributions.
Playing Style and Strengths
William Eklund is known for his agility and offensive instincts as a forward. His ability to read the game and create scoring opportunities makes him a valuable asset on the ice. Eklund’s skill set allows him to adapt to various playing styles, and his partnership with the Sharks’ coaching staff has helped refine his strategic approach to the game.
Notable Events and Milestones
Eklund’s NHL debut and first point in October 2021 marked significant milestones early in his career. Scoring his first NHL goal in March 2023 further established his presence in the league. His selection as the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft highlights his status as one of the top prospects of his class.
William Eklund Career Wins
While detailed statistics on career wins are limited, William Eklund’s progression from the SHL to the NHL and his contributions to the San Jose Sharks demonstrate his upward trajectory and growing impact in professional hockey.
SHL Highlights
Eklund made his SHL debut with Djurgårdens IF in January 2020, quickly establishing himself as a promising young player. His performance in the 2020–21 SHL season, including scoring five points in eight games, underscored his offensive capabilities and readiness for the NHL.
Other Wins & Performances
In addition to his SHL and NHL experience, Eklund has represented Sweden at the international level. He was named to the preliminary Swedish junior team roster for the 2021 World Junior Championships but was unable to participate due to a positive COVID-19 test. He made his debut with the Sweden senior national team in April 2021, scoring a goal and an assist in a friendly against Denmark.
William Eklund Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
William Eklund comes from a family with a strong hockey background. His father, Christian Eklund, was a professional hockey player, and his brother, Victor Eklund, is also pursuing a career in hockey, having been drafted by the New York Islanders. This family environment has played a significant role in William’s development as a player.
Personal Life
Details about William Eklund’s personal life, including marital status and residence, are not publicly disclosed. He maintains a focus on his professional career and development within the sport.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, William Eklund signed a three-year contract extension with the San Jose Sharks, reflecting the organization’s commitment to his growth. As he continues to establish himself in the NHL, Eklund is expected to play a larger role with the Sharks, contributing to the team’s offensive efforts. His development under the current coaching staff and increased ice time will be critical factors in his performance and impact during the 2025 season and beyond.