Filip Ekberg – Ottawa 67’s – Player Profile

HT	WT	DOB	POS	SH	Import Draft	NHLCS	NAT
5’10”	168	Apr 14, 2025	LW	L	33rd 2024	178 NA	SWE

SEASON	LEAGUE	TEAM	GP	G	A	PTS
2024-2025	OHL	Ottawa 67’s	53	16	29	45

To be frank, I—like many independent scouting agencies—find NHL Central Scouting’s ranking of Ekberg perplexing and hard to justify. It’s possible they placed too much weight on his sluggish start to the season, which was understandably impacted by the challenges of adjusting to the North American game, compounded by early injuries and illness.

Born on April 14, 2007, in Uppsala, Sweden, Ekberg made the leap across the Atlantic to join the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL for the 2024–25 season. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 168 pounds, he may not be the most physically imposing player on the ice, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in skill, intelligence, and sheer determination.

Ekberg’s breakout moment came during the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship, where he led the tournament in scoring with 10 goals and 18 points in just seven games, setting a new Swedish record in the process. His performance helped Sweden secure its seventh consecutive medal at the event and left scouts buzzing about his NHL potential.

Let’s break down what makes Filip Ekberg such a compelling prospect.

Skating and Agility

Ekberg’s skating is one of his most noticeable assets. He has good acceleration, quick first steps, and the agility to weave through defenders with ease. His edge work allows him to change direction on a dime, making him a nightmare to contain in open ice. He’s not just fast—he’s elusive.

Stickhandling and Puck Control

If there’s one word to describe Ekberg’s hands, it’s silky. He can maneuver through traffic with the puck seemingly glued to his stick. His ability to force defenders into committing first, then exploit the opening with a quick move, is reminiscent of elite NHL playmakers. He’s patient, poised, and always calculating his next move.

Playmaking and Vision

Ekberg’s hockey IQ is high. He sees plays develop before they happen and has the passing touch to thread the puck through tight lanes. Whether it’s a no-look dish on the power play or a quick give-and-go in transition, he consistently puts his teammates in scoring positions.

Shooting and Scoring Touch

While not known for a booming slapshot, Ekberg’s wrist shot is accurate and deceptively quick. He doesn’t need much time or space to get it off, and when he shoots, he usually hits his mark. His ability to finish in tight, especially under pressure, makes him a dual threat as both a scorer and a setup man.

Defensive Awareness

Defensively is where Ekberg needs to improve. You can find yourself questioning his effort on the backcheck or in his own zone at times.

Physicality and Grit

At 5’10”, Ekberg isn’t going to overpower opponents, but he doesn’t shy away from contact. In fact, he’s shown a willingness to battle along the boards.

Final Thoughts

Filip Ekberg is the kind of player who makes you sit up in your seat. He’s dynamic, driven, and deceptively dangerous with the puck. While he still has areas to refine—particularly his physical play and defense—his ceiling is high.