Philip Bystedt had success in his short stint in the AHL last year, but what's next?
Bystedt will likely remain in North America for the 2024-25 season with the San Jose Barracuda. The San Jose Sharks' 2022 first-round draft pick will look to maintain his scoring prowess after recording four goals and seven points in his first eight AHL games to close out last season. This comes after an SHL season in which he recorded just eight goals and 17 points in 47 games with Linköping HC.
The 20-year-old centre, who attended the Sharks development camp, spoke about his brief success in the AHL, his NHL ambitions and the friendships he has made with other Swedes in the San Jose Sharks system.
John McCarthy also shared the organization's prediction for Bystedt.
“It was a tough time,” Bystedt said of his brief AHL stint at the end of last season.
It's definitely encouraging. Coming here allowed me to get to know the American Hockey League and what it's all about. I think I had a good experience last year. I think I can be more calm and gain more experience going into next season.
“It's been a while since I've been in the team,” Bysted said of his relationship with Matias Havelid, the San Jose Sharks' 2022 second-round pick.
We grew up together, were in the same class at school, and have played on the same teams most of our lives, so it's nice to always have someone nearby to chat to and relax with in the room.
On where he will play next season, Bystedt said:
Of course I want to play in the NHL. If that happens, [with the Barracuda]If I get demoted to the AHL, I've got to be that guy, trying to prove myself there and doing everything I can every day to stand out and earn my spot there.
When asked what he would like to improve, Bystedt said:
I want to start working in the gym and get stronger. In the NHL, you have to be strong and be able to handle any situation. I want to work on my shooting so I can score goals. And of course, puck management. When I get to the NHL level, [you’re] You won't have much time so you have to be really comfortable.
“It's great to be surrounded by Swedes,” Bystedt said of being surrounded by fellow Swedes.
That's important. As you said, William [Eklund] Been here a few times [times] To development camp. I walked all over him, asked him questions. It was good to get him settled in and more comfortable.
John McCarthy thinks Bystedt needs to improve:
That's what we talked about at the end of last year. I think he's shown the ability to create offense at the AHL level, but it's important that he closes out the game. What will that look like at the NHL level? We see him as a middle-six type of player. His penalty-killing ability and [be] Being competitive in the faceoff circle is a good thing as it increases his value.
