Axel Sandin Pellikka

Axel Sandin Pellikka (born 11 March 2005) is a Swedish professional ice hockey defenceman currently under contract as a prospect for the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted 17th overall by the Red Wings in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.

Playing career
Sandin Pellikka played as a youth within Skellefteå AIK organization and made his professional debut in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) during the 2022–23 season.

In the 2023–24 campaign, Sandin Pellikka played his first full season in the SHL with Skellefteå AIK, recording 10 goals and 18 points from the blueline in 39 games. His 10 goals were the most of any under-19 skater and he was named the recipient of the Salming Trophy as the best Swedish-born defenseman in the SHL. Sandin-Pellikka helped Skellefteå AIK claim the Le Mat Trophy in winning the SHL championship, tallying 7 points in 14 playoff games.

On 6 May 2024, Sandin Pellikka was signed to a three-year, entry-level contract with draft club, the Detroit Red Wings.

International play
Sandin Pellikka represented Sweden at the 2024 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships and won a silver medal.

Personal life
Sandin Pellikka is of Finnish descent. His father is Finnish, but was born in Sweden. The family name Pellikka is of Karelian origin.