Former 11th overall pick lands on the trade block ahead of next season

As the Utah Hockey Club prepares for its inaugural NHL season, the team is reportedly considering trading former first-round pick Victor Soderstrom to acquire a piece that can help them compete immediately.

When Utah was in Arizona as the Coyotes, the management and scouting staff did a solid job through the draft. However, Soderstrom, the 2019 11th overall pick, has struggled to secure a permanent spot in the NHL since transitioning to North America in 2021.

Currently a restricted free agent, Soderstrom is a topic of trade discussions. Craig Morgan of PHNX Sports reports that while Utah is open to re-signing the defenseman, General Manager Bill Armstrong is exploring trade options for the 23-year-old Swedish native.

Since coming over to North America, Soderstrom has spent most of his time in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Tucson Roadrunners, while also appearing in 53 NHL games for the now-dissolved Arizona Coyotes. In the past season, Soderstrom posted 32 points (nine goals, 23 assists), 34 penalty minutes, and a minus-eight rating with the Roadrunners.

With the additions Utah has made this offseason, including Mikhail Sergachev, John Marino, and Ian Cole, Soderstrom's path to a full-time role on their blueline seems unlikely. As the summer progresses, it will be interesting to see what Bill Armstrong decides to do with Soderstrom. The young defenseman has shown potential, but finding a team willing to give him a regular NHL role could be crucial for his development.

A trade could bring Utah valuable assets or immediate help, aligning with their goal of being competitive in their first NHL season. For Soderstrom, a move might offer a fresh start and a better opportunity to establish himself as an NHL regular.

Source: Blade of Steel
Utah Hockey Club reportedly exploring trades for former first-round pick