Winnipeg Jets prospect Viggo Björck will continue his development in North America for the 2024-25 season. The 19-year-old forward, who was selected by the Jets in the seventh round (212th overall) of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, has committed to playing for the Tri-City Storm in the United States Hockey League (USHL).
Transition to the USHL
Björck’s move to the Tri-City Storm marks a significant shift in his career path. Previously, the Swedish-born center competed within the Djurgårdens IF organization, moving through their J18 and J20 junior programs. By joining the USHL, Björck transitions to the top junior ice hockey league in the United States, which is sanctioned by USA Hockey.
According to the official Tri-City Storm roster tracker, Björck is listed as part of the forward group for the current campaign. This move allows the Jets’ front office to monitor his progress on smaller, North American-sized ice sheets, a common development strategy for European prospects transitioning toward professional play.
Development Path and NHL Rights
The Winnipeg Jets retain the exclusive NHL negotiating rights to Björck following his selection in the 2024 draft. His decision to play in the USHL is a proactive step in adapting to the physical and tactical demands of the North American game.
- Draft Status: 2024, 7th Round, 212th Overall.
- Previous Team: Djurgårdens IF (Sweden).
- Current League: USHL (Tri-City Storm).
- Position: Center.
For the Jets, the objective is to see how Björck handles the transition from the Swedish junior system to the more aggressive, transition-heavy style of play found in the USHL. The organization has a history of utilizing the USHL as a pipeline for prospects, and Björck’s performance in Kearney, Nebraska, will be a primary indicator of his readiness for a potential jump to the American Hockey League (AHL) or a return to professional hockey in Europe in future seasons.
Impact on the Tri-City Storm
The addition of a drafted NHL prospect provides the Tri-City Storm with experienced depth at the center position. The USHL serves as a primary developmental ground for NCAA Division I collegiate hockey, and Björck’s presence adds a player with international junior experience to the Storm’s lineup. His development throughout the 2024-25 season will be tracked by Winnipeg’s amateur scouting department to determine his trajectory within the franchise’s prospect pool.
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