Joel Eriksson Ek is a Swedish professional ice hockey player who serves as a centre for the Minnesota Wild in the National Hockey League.
Born on January 29, 1997, in Karlstad, Sweden, he stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs around 207 pounds.
He shoots left and has established himself as a reliable two-way forward known for his strong defensive play, faceoff skills, physicality, and growing offensive contributions.
Drafted 20th overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Eriksson Ek has become a key part of the team’s core, often anchoring lines with his versatility and work ethic.
Siblings
Joel’s younger brother, Olle Eriksson Ek, born on June 22, 1999, is a professional goaltender.
Olle was selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the fifth round (153rd overall) of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft.
He has progressed through the Ducks’ organization, appearing in the American Hockey League with teams like the San Diego Gulls and making a brief NHL debut.
Their father, Clas Eriksson, played professionally for 13 seasons with Färjestad BK in the Swedish Hockey League, providing a strong hockey foundation for both sons.
Career
Eriksson Ek began his career in his hometown with Färjestad BK, following in his father’s footsteps.
He played in Sweden’s junior leagues and made his senior debut in the SHL before heading to North America.
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After being drafted by the Wild, he split time between the NHL and the AHL’s Iowa Wild in his early years.
He made his NHL debut during the 2016-17 season and became the first teenager in Wild franchise history to record three assists in a single game.
Over time, Eriksson Ek has developed into a dependable centre for Minnesota.
He has played more than 600 NHL games, consistently contributing in both ends of the ice.
Known for his strong skating, puck protection, and ability to win key faceoffs, he has taken on increased offensive responsibilities in recent seasons, skating alongside skilled linemates and posting career-high point totals in several campaigns.
His playing style blends physical engagement with smart positional play, making him valuable on special teams and in shutdown situations.
He has also represented Sweden internationally, including at the IIHF World Championships.
Accolades
Ek’s career highlights include being selected in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft and earning a gold medal with Sweden at the 2017 IIHF World Championships.
In his junior days with Färjestad, he collected honors such as recognition as the J18 Best U18 Forward and leading U18 junior scorers in the SHL.
While he has not yet captured major individual NHL awards like the Selke Trophy, he has gained recognition league-wide as one of the more complete and underrated two-way centres.
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