Victor Johansson, the Swedish ice hockey defenceman who helped Sweden win gold at the 2026 World Junior Championships, has agreed to join Brynäs IF of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) following Leksands IF’s relegation from the top tier. The 19-year-old blueliner, born in Linköping on April 25, 2006, was drafted 120th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2024 NHL Entry Decision and had been under contract with Leksands IF for the 2025–26 season.
The transfer comes after Leksands IF failed to avoid relegation from the SHL, prompting Johansson to seek continued SHL competition elsewhere. Multiple Swedish outlets reported interest from both Brynäs and Djurgårdens IF, but Johansson ultimately chose Brynäs, where he will compete for a roster spot among the team’s seven established defencemen, with an eighth position expected to be filled by a junior prospect.
Johansson’s international credentials include representing Sweden at the 2026 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships held in the United States, where he went scoreless across five games but contributed to the team’s gold medal victory — Sweden’s first at the IIHF World Junior Championship since 2012. His performance earned him recognition as part of Sweden’s blue line during the tournament, which concluded in January 2026.
A product of the Linköping hockey system, Johansson is the son of Thomas Johansson, a former ice hockey player and current team manager, and the younger brother of Simon and Anton Johansson, both of whom also play competitive ice hockey in Sweden. He shoots left and stands at 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall, weighing 165 pounds (75 kg).
His professional debut came during the 2025–26 season with Leksands IF in the SHL before the club’s relegation. Despite limited top-flight experience, Johansson’s NHL draft status and junior international success positioned him as one of Sweden’s most promising young defensive prospects. Brynäs IF views him as a developmental asset with potential to grow into a regular SHL contributor.
The move aligns with Brynäs’ strategy to add a mix of experienced and high-upside defensive talent ahead of the upcoming SHL season. While financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed in available reports, the transfer represents a significant step in Johansson’s career as he aims to establish himself in Sweden’s top hockey league following his international accolades.
Johansson is expected to report to Brynäs IF’s training camp ahead of the 2026–27 SHL season, with his first official appearance for the club pending confirmation from the team. His progression will be monitored closely by the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, which holds his NHL rights.
For continued updates on Victor Johansson’s transition to Brynäs IF and his development within the SHL, follow official club announcements and league communications.
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