If the modern game is all about defencemen activating into the play, then Nils Lundkvist is built for this moment. If there’s a rush, he’s in it; if there’s a play in the offensive zone, he’s involved.

That mindset, coupled with standout skill, enabled Lundkvist to go from the 28th overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft to a top-25 prospect in the sport.

Along the way, Lundkvist set the record for scoring by an under-20 SHL defender, won the Elite Prospects Award as the best junior-aged SHLer, and topped it off as the 2021 Salming Trophy winner, given to the best Swedish defender in the SHL.

Now, Lundkvist’s sights are set on the NHL, and it won’t be long before he’s an impact player. Here’s everything that makes Lundkvist one of the most exciting prospects in the sport.