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Much of the attention on the Philadelphia Flyers for the past few weeks has been on their playoff push.
While that has understandably been the focus, there had been a bit “will they, won’t they” when it came to 2024 second round pick Jack Berglund’s likelihood of coming to North America.
On Thursday, the Flyers answered that question when they announced that they had secured the Swedish center to a three year entry level contract, beginning in the 2026-27 season.
But there will be no waiting on his arrival as general manager Daniel Briere stated that Berglund would be assigned to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms for the remainder of this season.
International Resume
Berglund has had an impressive 2025-26 season both in Sweden and internationally. The 19 year old played the majority of his year playing in the Swedish Elite League with Farjestads BK Karlstad. He notched seven goals and 12 points in 40 regular season games. Four of those seven goals were game-winners.
Additionally, he tallied three assists in seven playoff games for the club.
However, the 6-foot-4, 209 lb pivot had a breakout performance for Sweden in this year World Junior Championship, putting himself firmly on the team’s radar. Serving as team captain, he led Tre Knonor to their first gold medal in 14 years. He put forth a strong performance with three goals and seven assists for 10 points in seven games. He finished with a tournament-leading plus-minus of plus-nine.
The Plan For Berglund
Prior to the season, Berglund arrived at the Philadelphia Flyers summer development camp and impressed with his physical game in puck battles, portending a strong campaign ahead. There has been some high end comparisons to former Minnesota Wild captain Mikko Koivu, especially when his leadership capabilities have been discussed.
Former Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman spoke to The Nasty Knuckles Podcast about Berglund, who he coached during World Juniors.
For the moment, he seems to project as a strong third line center option. However, if he develop his offensive game further, the Flyers might have a real strong option at a vital position.
There’s a few ways to look at Berglund’s decision to come to the Flyers now. One, by playing in the AHL for the remainder of the season, he can “try on” North American hockey to see if he would be ready for a full move over in the fall. The Phantoms have five games remaining on their schedule.
Once the fall arrives, we’ll see what pathway Berglund will take. There’s a chance that he could find himself playing into the mix for a roster spot, especially on the fourth line to start. He turns 20 on Friday and he’ll push to try to make the Flyers roster in the fall.
At the same time, they could opt to send Berglund back to Sweden, as he still has one year remaining on his contract with Farjestads.
One thing is for certain, another piece for the Flyers future has been secured.
Off The Post Radio With Special Guest Stefen Rosner
On the midweek Off The Post Radio, powered by Benevolent Bakery, SoShel Beverages, and Lights On Electric, Michael, Russ, and I were joined by Stefen Rosner of NHL.com and The Elmonters.
Stefen broke down the New York Islanders coaching change, what their plans are for the short- and long-term, and more.
Additionally, Russ and I discussed the Flyers late season charge to the postseason and whether Trevor Zegras is here to stay as a center. Finally, Michael delved deep into the Buffalo Sabres battle for playoff seeding, and the languishing Toronto Maple Leafs.
Have a watch, exclusively on Hockey Hot Stove!
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