Insider links the Canucks to former first-round pick
An insider has suggested that the Vancouver Canucks should bring in a former first-round pick, a move that would come via trade.
Utah Hockey Club are in a bit of a pickle when it comes to former first-round pick Victor Soderstrom and his future with the organization after becoming a restricted free agent earlier this month.
Reports have suggested that Soderstrom could be traded or even play in Europe next season. Still, Utah HC is hoping to avoid that and wants to re-sign him, but as of July 24th, nothing has materialized on that front, and it's unclear where talks stand.
On a recent edition of 'Sekeres and Price,' Irfaan Gaffar was a guest. When discussing potential players the Vancouver Canucks could pursue to help the blueline, he mentioned Victor Soderstrom.
Sekeres: Yeah?
Irf: Victor Soderstrom.
Sekeres: Oh wow.
Irf: The Arizona Coyotes moved up in the draft here in Vancouver in 2019 to pick him at 11 overall�23 year-old right shot defenceman. I think looking for a new home. Now, whatever the Arizona/Utah organization wants or what it's going to take to try and make that work remains to be seen, but that's a name I would keep an eye on, and I'd be interested in."
Soderstrom has spent most of his career in the American Hockey League with the Tucson Roadrunners since coming to North America in 2021. He has also appeared in 53 NHL games for the now-dissolved Arizona Coyotes.
During the 2023-24 season, the 23-year-old put up 32 points (nine goals, 23 assists), 34 penalty minutes and was a minus-eight in 62 games for Tucson. Soderstrom also appeared in three games for the Coyotes but went pointless.
If the Canucks are still looking for help on the blue line, bringing in someone like Victor Soderstrom could be interesting. He's still young and learning his way in North America but needs a fresh start elsewhere and a path to the NHL if he continues to improve. Playing under Rick Tocchet and Adam Foote would benefit Soderstrom immensely.
Should the Vancouver Canucks trade for Victor Soderstrom? Let us know what you think in the poll below!
| POLL | ||
Should the Canucks trade for Victor Soderstrom? | ||
| Yes | 281 | 46 % |
| No | 330 | 54 % |
| List of polls | ||
