The most surprising fact about Victor Eklund’s NHL debut is that he has no car, no driver’s license, and a living room filled with furniture he stole from his roommates. The 20-year-old Swede relies on teammates to get to practice because he cannot drive himself yet.
Emil Heineman and Simon Holmstrom have stepped in to fill the gap. They act as his personal Uber drivers every single day. Holmstrom told The Post after Tuesday’s practice, according to the New York Post, “We’ve been his personal Uber drivers since he got here.” The two 25-year-old Swedes handle the off-ice logistics while Eklund focuses on his game. Heineman added that the young player often takes his time when they try to pick him up.
A Couch and a Bed
Eklund did not plan to live on Long Island when camp started. He stayed in a hotel because he was unsure if he would make the roster or stay in the league. He has played past the 10-game mark, burning a year of his contract; he also cannot be sent down easily. He moved into an apartment complex where his teammates live to save money and build a support system.
The furniture situation is a mix of old and new items. Heineman said, “It looks like a mix of our old apartments, it’s pretty funny.” Eklund took an old couch and Simon’s bed from their places. He joked about his borrowing habits, saying, “I try to steal as much as I can.” He does have a new bed coming soon, but he admits the current setup is nice. The team dynamic helps him adjust to life in a new country without the stress of finding a place alone.
Playing Like a Veteran
Eklund’s motor and battle level make him a factor on every shift. Coach Pete DeBoer noted last week that Eklund makes mistakes but always makes the right read. Along the boards, he wins more battles than his share. The coach noted the young player consistently stays on the right side of the puck, a rarity for his age.
These skills mean Eklund is proving he belongs in the top six. It is hard to believe he will ever play AHL hockey again. He has already crossed the threshold that triggers a contract year. The team is moving forward with him as a key piece of their future. He knows he cannot stop working just because he has a couch and a bed to go home to.
Eklund told reporters, “I’m gonna work even harder.” His teammates will keep helping him navigate the daily tasks he cannot do alone. He is not just surviving the transition; he is thriving in it while his friends drive him to the arena.
