Detroit Red Wings: Ranking the top six prospects heading into training camp
By Bob Heyrman
Detroit Red Wings no. 5 prospect, Elmer Soderblom, 21, left-wing
Elmer Soderblom might be Detroit’s most intriguing prospect. Soderblom is a towering 6-foot-8 winger that isn’t just a bruising power forward, which his size suggests; he’s displayed a plethora of skill and hand-quickness around the net.
Check out Soderblom’s unbelievable goal in the 2021 IIHF World Junior Tournament.
https://twitter.com/hockeynight/status/1345506499007799298?s=20&t=9M9T2WdJq-7nfz7zUiLZfA
Soderblom’s size certainly translates to the NHL, but so do skillful plays like this. Once he arrives in Detroit, Soderblom has the makings of being a force around the net especially working with a man advantage on the power-play.
The Swedish force performed well alongside current Red Wings forward Lucas Raymond during their international tournament opportunities.
Soderblom got off to a slow start in 2020-21 with Frolunda HC in the Swedish Hockey League, scoring just three goals totaling five points in 28 games. Last season Soderblom blossomed, recording 21 goals totaling 33 points over 52 games. He’d also add three goals and six points in nine playoff games.
The 21-year-old is expected to begin the 2022-23 season with Grand Rapids. Don’t be shocked if we see the towering forward in Detroit at some point this season for a cup of coffee.