A pair of Swedish forwards, Alexander Command & Albert Johanssen, have made dramatic leaps forward in Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Given their play in their draft seasons, it is easy to see why.
Per Central Scouting’s Preliminary Watch List, Command was a projected 6th/7th round pick, Johanssen a 4th/5th rounder. Their efforts at this tournament, and their respective seasons in general, definitely have enhanced their status for the upcoming selection process. Command now is the 12th-ranked international skater, placing him in first-round consideration. He finished the Challenge with 5 points (3G 2A) in 5 games, and recently was promoted from Sweden’s U20 system to its top pro league.
Johansson’s stock also is on the rise. He is ranked #30 among international skaters, making him a potential second round candidate. Like Command, Johansson also has been promoted this season in Sweden’s system. He began 2025-26 at the U18 level, and has since moved to U20 Nationell. He has tallied 14 points (2G 12A) at the U20 level.
In an earlier article I published during the World Junior A Challenge, I discussed how the efforts of these two players may improve their draft stock. I have attached a link to that article. It will be interesting to see how the rest of this season unfolds for these young men.