Historic Moments for Swedish Hockey as Anton Frondell Selected Third in NHL Draft
Anton Frondell makes history as the third overall pick in the NHL Draft, showcasing Swedish talent.
Key Points
- • Anton Frondell selected third overall by Chicago Blackhawks.
- • Victor Eklund picked 16th by New York Islanders, both from Djurgården.
- • Sasha Boumedienne goes 28th to Winnipeg Jets.
- • Only seven Swedes have been selected in the top three prior to Frondell.
In a significant milestone for Swedish ice hockey, Anton Frondell was selected third overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2025 NHL Draft, an achievement that places him alongside a select group of just seven Swedish players previously chosen in the top three. Frondell, a star from Djurgården, expressed his surprise and excitement, stating, "I was shocked," and conveyed his gratitude to the Chicago management for their faith in him.
The draft held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles also featured Victor Eklund, Frondell's teammate at Djurgården, who was picked 16th overall by the New York Islanders. Eklund had an impressive season in Hockeyallsvenskan, tallying 19 goals. Another notable Swedish prospect, Sasha Boumedienne, was drafted 28th by the Winnipeg Jets, further highlighting Sweden's strong representation in this year's draft.
As the first overall pick went to Canadian defenseman Matthew Schaefer by the Islanders and Michael Misa followed closely at second to the San Jose Sharks, the event underscored the expanding talent pool in the NHL. The draft concluded with teams participating remotely while 93 selected talents, including Frondell and Eklund, were present at the venue, marking a historic day for Swedish hockey as the second to seventh rounds are set to continue the following evening. Frondell's achievement not only enhances the profile of Swedish players in the league but also sets a promising future for the sport in Sweden.