Gustav Hillström – 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile

The 2022-23 season marked a major leap in Hillström’s development. He dominated at the U16 level, tallying an astounding 44 points (28 goals, 16 assists) in 22 U16 Region games, later adding 12 points in eight U16 SM games. His transition to the J18 level began that same season, where he showed flashes of potential despite limited production (seven points in 21 combined J18 Region and Nationell games). Internationally, he represented Sweden’s U16 team, chipping in one assist across three games.

By the 2023-24 season, Hillström’s growth continued. He excelled in the J18 ranks, recording 23 points in 13 J18 Region games and seven points in four J18 Nationell playoff games. At the J20 Nationell level, he contributed 10 points in 28 games, gaining valuable experience against older competition. His international play expanded with Sweden’s U17 team, where he added five points in 15 games, including a goal at the World U17 Hockey Challenge.

The 2024-25 season has been Hillström’s most pivotal yet. Playing an entire season in the J20 Nationell, he emerged as a key young player for Brynäs IF, tallying 38 points (16 goals, 22 assists) in 43 regular-season games. He also added two points in five playoff games, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Additionally, Hillström made his debut in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), suiting up for Brynäs IF’s senior team and recording two points in 18 games. While his SHL numbers are modest, the experience of playing at Sweden’s highest level has further refined his game, as he won 52% of his faceoffs in those 18 games. Internationally, he represented Sweden’s U18 team, adding one assist across 10 games.

Gustav Hillström – NHL Draft Projection

Gustav Hillström is a big, hardworking center with defensive upside. He’s known for his strength on the puck and his ability to backcheck. His defensive awareness stands out in this draft, as he often covers for out-of-position defenders in his own zone. Tough in front of both nets, he plays with grit and can be an offensive threat when driving hard to the goal and from the slot. He’s also reliable in the faceoff circle, frequently winning draws, notably going 62% in the circle in the J20 league.

While he doesn’t have flashy offensive numbers, Hillström’s hockey sense allows him to create high-quality scoring chances. His steady improvement over the past few years makes him a player worth keeping an eye on, despite the low offensive output. Though he might not be considered a high-end pick, many believe he’s one of the most underrated forwards in his age group, possibly going in the late second to early third rounds.

Other THW Draft Profiles

Quotables

“Hillstrom is a big, hardworking center with defensive upside. He is strong on the puck and backchecks effectively, demonstrating good defensive awareness by often covering for out-of-position defenders in his own zone. He’s tough in front of both nets and can be an offensive threat when driving hard to the net. He wins many faceoffs, especially in key moments.” – Linus Johnsson, FC Hockey

“Draft Gustav Hillstrom in the 2nd- 3rd rounds if organizational need includes a long-term center with defensive awareness, faceoff reliability, and elite processing habits. While he doesn’t project as a scorer, his translatable defensive game, passing ability, and intelligent support play give him a real chance to have a career at the NHL level in a key utility role.” – Neutral Zone

“Hillstrom is an imposing slot-presence. He shadows play well off of the puck and reacts quickly to loose pucks or changes in play. His hands are quick and edges are sharp for a player his size, and he uses it to turn up ice quickly and find teammates with hard passes. He fights hard in corner or slot battles, but is still working on getting the strength to match his size.” – Gabriel Foley, Recruit Scouting

Strengths

Under Construction/Improvements to Make

NHL Potential

Hillström’s growth trajectory paints a picture of a hardworking center with a reliable two-way game. While not the flashiest player, his elite passing skills/percentages, defensive awareness, and faceoff percentages make him a player worth watching. As he continues to mature physically and develop his offensive toolkit, Hillström has the potential to find a role as a trusted bottom-six 200-foot center in the NHL one day.

Risk-Reward Analysis

Risk – 3.5/5, Reward – 4/5

Fantasy Hockey Potential

Offense: 6/10 Defense 8/10

Awards/Achievements

Interviews/Links

SHL: Gustav Hillstrom – Neutral Zone – Men’s

Gustav Hillström Stats

Videos