Islanders Teammates Help Eklund Settle Into NHL Life

Victor Eklund has moved out of a hotel and into an apartment on Long Island, with fellow Islanders Emil Heineman and Simon Holmstrom helping him get settled. The 19-year-old Swede has yet to own an automobile or obtain an American driving permit, so the two teammates have been driving him around; they shared this after practice on November 3, 2026.

Eklund’s new home is in the same apartment complex as Heineman and Holmstrom. He has received furniture from their homes, including a couch and a bed, and plans to buy the remaining essentials. His family has visited, and a close friend from Sweden is currently helping with the move.

Eklund had initially stayed in a hotel because he was unsure whether he would make the NHL roster or remain with the team. After playing 10 games, he crossed the point at which a year of his contract counts. His strong performance has also made a return to the minors appear unlikely in the near term.

Coach Pete DeBoer praised Eklund’s effort, defensive awareness and ability to win battles, saying the rookie has shown he belongs in the team’s top six. Eklund said getting an apartment would not lessen his commitment to improving.

Heineman and Holmstrom have also offered to have him over for dinner. Their help echoes Holmstrom’s support for Heineman when he first moved to Long Island from Montreal. The teammates said they are available whenever Eklund needs assistance.