Utah Hockey Club top prospect abandons his team to go play overseas
After just 53 games in the NHL, Utah HC prospect Victor Soderstrom is leaving the league to return to Sweden.
Soderstrom, once a top defensive prospect in the 2019 NHL draft, was selected 11th overall by the Arizona Coyotes after playing 44 games with Brynäs IF in Sweden.
Despite his high draft pick, Soderstrom struggled to make a lasting impact in the NHL, appearing in only 53 games over four years with just one goal and 11 points. Most of his time was spent with the Coyotes' AHL affiliate, the Tucson Roadrunners.
With the Coyotes transitioning into the Utah Hockey Club and no clear path to a significant role, Soderstrom, now 23 and a restricted free agent, decided to return to Sweden. He has signed a two-year deal with his former team, Brynäs IF, in the Swedish Hockey League.
Soderstrom last played for Brynäs during the 2019-2020 season, where he recorded 5 goals and 11 assists in 35 games. With this move, he's expected to get more ice time and a chance to be a key player on the team. Whether this stint will pave the way for a return to the NHL remains to be seen.
Source: Daily FaceoffUtah HC defense prospect Victor Söderström signs two-year deal with Brynäs IF
| POLL | ||
15 SEPTEMBRE | 79 ANSWERS Utah Hockey Club top prospect abandons his team to go play overseas Will Utah HC prospect Victor Soderstrom return to the NHL? | ||
| Yes | 23 | 29.1 % |
| No | 56 | 70.9 % |
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