Former first rounder potentially heading to Europe after changing agencies
After changing agencies, former first round draft pick of the Arizona Coyotes Victor Soderstrom appears to be heading to Europe to play overseas.
When the clock struck noon Eastern Time on Monday, July 1st, former Arizona Coyotes first-round pick Victor Soderstrom officially became a restricted free agent. Since then, there appears to have been no progress in contract talks between Soderstrom and his team, Utah HC.
Last week, reports surfaced that Utah was exploring trade options for Soderstrom. While a trade is still possible, there is also a chance that Soderstrom might not play in North America at all next season. According to Craig Morgan of PHNX Sports, Soderstrom has changed agents and is no longer represented by Quartexx Hockey. Morgan added that there is some speculation Soderstrom may decide to play in Europe for the 2024-25 season. Even if he does, Utah will retain his rights as they issued a qualifying offer last month.
Utah has been open to signing him but also exploring trades.
There is some thought that he may decide to stay/play in Europe." Morgan said.
Soderstrom, 23, came to North America in 2021 and has spent most of his career in the American Hockey League with the Tucson Roadrunners. He has also played in 53 NHL games for the now-dissolved Arizona Coyotes. During the 2023-24 season, Soderstrom had career highs in goals, assists, and points, helping Tucson make a playoff appearance. In 62 games last season with the Roadrunners, he recorded 32 points (nine goals, 23 assists), 34 penalty minutes, and a minus-eight rating.
We'll have to wait and see how this situation develops in the coming weeks and months. Utah is likely hoping to agree on a contract with Soderstrom and keep him in their system for the 2024-25 season rather than losing him to a European team.
Credit: bladeofsteelFormer Coyotes first-rounder changes agents, may play in Europe this season
| POLL | ||
22 JUILLET | 87 ANSWERS Former first rounder potentially heading to Europe after changing agencies Where do you think Victor Soderstrom will play next season? | ||
| Utah HC | 16 | 18.4 % |
| Overseas | 43 | 49.4 % |
| Another NHL team | 28 | 32.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
