Wilhelm Hallquisth, born on March 2, 2005, is a Swedish defenseman currently eligible for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Hallquisth, who most recently played in the HockeyAllsvenskan with Södertälje SK, is a right-handed shot standing at 5'11" and weighing 181 lbs. He is considered a mobile, puck-moving defenseman with good skating ability. NHL Central Scouting ranked him 49th among European skaters.

Hallquisth has spent the 2024-2025 season playing for both HV71 in the SHL and HV71 J20 in the J20 Nationell league. In 37 SHL games, he recorded 1 goal and 8 assists for 9 points, with a -7 plus/minus rating. He also played in 4 J20 Nationell games, scoring 3 goals.

Scouting Report

Hallquisth is known for his skating. He displays mobility in all directions, helping him find open spaces with the puck. His skating is considered above average, even for an NHL projection, with quickness over both short and long distances and smooth backward and sideways mobility.

He is a puck-moving, two-way defender who is reliable at getting the puck out of the defensive zone and into the hands of the forwards. He makes smart, mistake-free decisions regardless of pressure from forechecking opponents.

Strengths

• Skating: Hallquisth's skating ability is a standout attribute, allowing him to cover ground quickly and efficiently.
• Puck-Moving Skills: He excels at transitioning the puck out of the defensive zone, making smart and safe plays under pressure.
• Vision: Hallquisth possesses good vision and hockey sense, enabling him to make effective passes and contribute offensively.

Weaknesses

• Physicality: Hallquisth could stand to improve his physical game, engaging more in battles and using his body to his advantage.
• Puck Control: While he is a good puck-mover, refining his puck control skills would further enhance his game.
• Consistency: There are reports that he can take too much safe distance and leaves room for opponents to enter the zone with ease.

Potential

Hallquisth's long-term potential lies in his skating and puck-moving abilities. With further development, he could become a reliable depth defenseman on an NHL blueline. However, he will need to adapt to the North American style of hockey to secure a chance in the NHL. Some scouts believe that Hallquisth's raw ability and offensive instincts are promising.

NHL Draft Projection

Hallquisth is projected to be a late-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. His skating makes him an intriguing prospect, and a team might take a chance on him to see if he can develop into a valuable depth player.

Several NHL teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Toronto Maple Leafs, have shown interest in Hallquisth.