The Winnipeg Jets` defensive unit is poised to feature a notable Swedish influence in the upcoming years, assuming player development proceeds as anticipated.
Elias Salomonsson, a right-shot defenseman selected in the second round in 2022, remains the top defensive prospect in the Jets` system. He is now joined by countryman Sascha Boumedienne, a left-shot blueliner chosen by the Jets with the 28th pick in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft on Friday.
Last season, Boumedienne made a significant transition to NCAA hockey, becoming one of the youngest players on the Boston University Terriers roster.
Reflecting on his initial experience, Boumedienne shared in April, “Coming in, I wasn’t the strongest guy, and it was a little bit of a shock at the beginning of the year. Battles were a little hard, just being knocked off the puck and being able to protect the puck.”
Boumedienne`s performance steadily improved throughout the year, culminating in an outstanding showing at the U-18 World Championship in April. Representing the silver-medal winning Swedish team, he set a new scoring record for defensemen in the tournament, tallying 14 points across seven games.
Sportsnet prospect analyst Sam Cosentino commented on his breakout U18 performance, stating on the broadcast, “He really jumped off the page there. As the youngest defenceman in college hockey, it’s pretty tough to make your mark against the bigger, older competition. You get back with your peer group at the end of the year, you start to gain confidence. He played over 20 minutes per game at the under-18s and with that, handling the puck often to end up with those 14 points.”
