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It's time for the next generation of Florida Panthers talent to step into the spotlight.
From Dec. 26 to Jan. 5, two Panthers prospects will represent their countries at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship in Minnesota, each chasing gold on one of hockey's biggest junior stages. Linus Eriksson will suit up for Sweden, while Mads Kongsbak Klyvo will carry Denmark's hopes in the tournament.
Games will be broadcast in the United States on NHL Network.
Eriksson, selected 58th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, will compete in Group A alongside defending champion USA, Slovakia, Switzerland and Germany. Sweden's games will be played at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, setting up several marquee matchups right out of the gate.
Still just 19 years old, Eriksson is already navigating life against men in Sweden's SHL. In his second season with Timrå IK, he has two assists in 25 games while playing a bottom-six role, adjusting to the speed and physicality of the pro game. The Panthers view this as a critical development phase rather than a setback.
Internationally, Eriksson is no stranger to leadership. The Stockholm native captained Sweden to a bronze medal at the 2024 U18 World Juniors and added two goals at last year's U20 tournament. Scouts have consistently praised his poise and maturity beyond his years.
«It was a big jump,» Eriksson said of the SHL. «It's such good players.»
Klyvo carries Denmark's hopes
On the other side of the bracket, Klyvo will skate for Denmark in Group B against Canada, Finland, Czechia and Latvia at 3M Arena at Mariucci in Minneapolis. A fourth-round pick in 2025, Klyvo enters the tournament as Denmark's lone NHL-drafted player.
The 18-year-old winger hasn't played this season due to injury, but his upside is undeniable. Last year with Frölunda HC J20, Klyvo recorded 29 points in 42 games and played a pivotal role in helping Denmark earn promotion at both the U18 and U20 Division I tournaments. At the U18 event, he posted nine points in five games.
Now healthy and eager, Klyvo's focus is clear.
«I'm really excited for the World Juniors,» he said during Florida's development camp. «There's a lot of hype. I'm looking forward to it.»
For the Panthers, the tournament offers a glimpse into the future, one built on patience, development, and international experience.
BOBKEYWORDS
Florida Panthers prospects | World Junior Championship | Linus Eriksson | Mads Kongsbak Klyvo | NHL Draft | IIHF U20
Florida Panthers prospects | World Junior Championship | Linus Eriksson | Mads Kongsbak Klyvo | NHL Draft | IIHF U20