Detroit Red Wings: 3 players to consider drafting with sixth overall pick

William Eklund, C/LW, Djurgårdens IF (SHL)

If the Detroit Red Wings want to add another top-tier Swedish forward, William Eklund is the guy. He could be paired with the Red Wings’ other young swede, Lucas Raymond. It’s expected that  Eklund is going to be a future powerhouse forward in the NHL.

In 2020-21 with Djurgårdens IF of the SHL, Eklund managed 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 total points over 40 games played. The 5-foot-10, 172-pound forward is someone who was able to battle and still be effective while playing in the tough SHL as a youngster.

He’s a left-handed shooting center and left-winger who would be a great addition to the Red Wings organization. Some have labeled him as a smaller player which might help him fall in the draft order; however, he may not even be there when the team goes to pick at six.

Eklund is shifty and smart, a good offensive-minded player. Someone who can create offense by way of himself or by setting up others. A good hockey-IQ player who would pair well with Raymond. That’s, of course, optimistic thinking, but being able to run a line with Eklund and Raymond would be one heck of a combination.

In the offensive zone, he’s got the accurate shot that finds the back of the net but is also someone who can work with space to create opportunities for others and make good passes. Eklund is an all-around smart player who plays both sides of the ice and does not lack in the defensive zone.

Someone who is a complete player should be considered as a great get for the Red Wings at sixth overall. He may not be there as was hinted at, but Eklund would be a great choice at sixth.