Out of the 29 players picked 219th overall in NHL history, only five have made it to the league, and among the 29 seventh-round picks the Carolina Hurricanes have made over the years, just five have played in the NHL. Rookie defenseman Joel Nystrom, taken 219th overall in the 2021 draft, is Carolina’s last pick from that year and is one of those five players in both categories.
Nystrom’s journey is unique because, besides being a rare seventh-round pick to make it to the NHL, he had only seven games of North American experience before being called up. Despite numerous team injuries opening a spot, Nystrom’s quick readiness and shooting ability set him apart.
Developing in Sweden, Nystrom impressed with his hockey IQ and grasp of the Hurricanes’ system. His smart positioning and decision-making across all zones convinced the team to take a flyer on him despite concerns about size and skating. Hurricanes’ associate GM Darren York highlighted Nystrom’s strong hockey sense as a key factor in his rise, stating that it’s now evident in his NHL play, especially with injuries taking a toll on the roster.
Nystrom’s development in Sweden’s elite leagues prepared him well for big roles and high-pressure minutes. The Hurricanes brought him to North America to advance his game further, emphasizing his ability to defend and kill plays in all zones. Development coach Kevin McCarthy played a significant role, closely monitoring and guiding his progression.
Weekly conversations with the team help Nystrom improve areas like skating, puck handling, and physical play, contributing to his growth. York said his improved strength and skating helped him adapt to facing bigger, faster NHL players, enhancing his overall game.
Nystrom made his NHL debut under tough circumstances, flying in late and missing warmups due to a last-minute roster change. He faced top-tier opponents right away and despite a rough team loss, coaches praised his performance and resilience. Shortly after, an injury from a shot to the face tested his toughness, but he quickly returned to support his team through their tough season.
He’s adapted well to the smaller North American ice and has earned trust by playing heavy minutes in key situations like penalty kills. His possession stats and gameplay against top opponents have been impressive for a rookie. The Hurricanes’ management and coaching staff credit his hockey IQ, commitment, and fit with their system as reasons for his success.
With injuries forcing him into prominent roles, Nystrom has seized the opportunity and steadily improved, earning praise from teammates and coaches. He’s physically and mentally growing in the NHL and steadily becoming a vital part of the Hurricanes’ defensive corps. The team believes he’ll continue to develop into an even more consistent and effective player.
Nystrom’s journey highlights the Hurricanes’ smart drafting strategy, emphasizing players who fit their style of strong defensive play, gap control, and puck transition. His story is a perfect example of how perseverance, hockey sense, and development can overcome draft position odds, creating new NHL talent against the odds.
Fan Take: Joel Nystrom’s rise is a thrilling reminder that perseverance and high hockey IQ can defy draft expectations, inspiring late-round picks everywhere. For hockey fans, his success symbolizes the growing global talent pool and the importance of smart scouting, promising deeper and more exciting NHL rosters in the future.
