Wild's Joel Eriksson Ek: Expected to return from Sweden soon

The Wild are expected to recall Eriksson Ek from Farjestad of the Swedish Elite League in the near future, Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Minnesota initially hoped to have the 20-year-old back with the big club in January, but opted to wait until Farjestad's season concluded. Eriksson Ek is said to be en route to the United States, and once he has an opportunity to practice with the team and get acclimated, he'll likely be formally recalled. The 2015 first-round pick got off to a hot start to his NHL career back in October before heading off to Sweden, producing two goals and three assists in nine games while averaging only 10:07 of ice time. Capable of playing either center or wing, Eriksson Ek will be playoff eligible by virtue of appearing early this season, but he'll burn the first year of his three-year, entry-level contract once he plays in his next game with the Wild.