Utah Hockey Club Considers Trade Options for Söderström Amid Restructuring
In a revealing update from PHNX Sports' Craig Morgan, the Utah Hockey Club has been reportedly exploring the trade market for Victor Söderström, their first-round pick from 2019.
As the team looks to accelerate its playoff aspirations, Söderström emerges as a key figure in potential roster enhancements.
At 23, Söderström's journey through the NHL has been tepid, with only 53 game appearances and a modest scoring record of one goal and 11 points over four seasons with the Coyotes. Despite these challenges, the defensive prospect has shown considerable potential in the American Hockey League (AHL), which might make him an attractive target for teams willing to invest in a reclamation project.
Utah's recent strategic moves, including acquiring defenders Mikhail Sergachev, John Marino, and Ian Cole, signify a shift towards a stronger defensive lineup. However, the focus now shifts to bolstering their forward group, positioning Söderström as a possible trade piece to achieve this goal.
Reflecting on the 2019 draft, it's evident that the class was notably impacted by the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw the cancellation of numerous minor league games. This draft cohort has struggled to produce top-tier NHL talent, yet players like Söderström might still reach their potential with more time and the right developmental conditions.
The current climate in Utah underscores a readiness to reshape their squad, aiming for a competitive edge in the upcoming seasons. Whether Söderström will be part of this new chapter or find his place with another team remains a topic of keen interest and speculation in the hockey community.
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