It’s not every day a sixth-round draft pick steals the spotlight from the headline-grabbing stars, but something quietly remarkable is unfolding in the Montreal Canadiens’ prospect pipeline.

While most fans are still buzzing about Ivan Demidov’s dramatic selection in Las Vegas, a lesser-known name is beginning to stir up excitement in hockey circles far beyond North America.

Filip Eriksson, a 20-year-old center drafted 165th overall, is suddenly making waves in Sweden—and not just among casual observers.

Eriksson’s journey has taken a surprising turn, and whispers about his potential are growing louder with each passing game.

Playing for Lulea HF, the reigning champions of the Swedish Hockey League, this young forward has managed to do what few sixth-round picks ever accomplish: he’s forcing the Canadiens’ front office, and fans alike, to pay close attention.

Reports from overseas hint at a player whose hockey IQ and explosive offensive abilities could eventually make him one of the most intriguing prospects in Montreal’s system.

But what exactly is happening in Sweden that has scouts and experts rethinking Eriksson’s future? And could the Canadiens have found a hidden gem that might change their fortunes sooner than anyone expected? The answers may surprise you—read on to discover the full story behind Eriksson’s sudden rise.

Photo credit: NHL/TVA

A distant 6th-round pick by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2024 draft is climbing the ranks of the Canadiens’ prospect system.

The 2024 draft is mostly remembered for the selection of Ivan Demidov announced by Celine Dion in the big sphere in Las Vegas.. but Canadiens fans now have another reason to be hopeful.

A young left-handed center, 5’11”, selected 165th overall by Kent Hughes and his staff, is turning quite a few heads in Sweden.

Filip Eriksson, this 20-year-old Montreal Canadiens prospect who’s drawing attention in Sweden

Playing with Lulea HF, the reigning champions of the SHL (Sweden’s top league), the young player is having an explosive training camp with 2 goals and 2 assists in two preseason games.

Before joining Lulea, he played last season with the Vaxjo Lakers, where he had a rather limited role.

His move to Lulea and his recent performances give plenty of reason for optimism, as he’s playing on the first line and on the power play, where he can make use of his one-timer, as shown in the video below.

Various reports on Eriksson describe a player with a high hockey IQ.

Prospect expert Grant McCagg also posted a video yesterday analyzing the young man’s play and, as you can see below, Canadiens fans have reason to be excited.