Pittsburgh Penguins acquire Elmer Soderblom from Detroit Red Wings for 2026 third-round pick

The Penguins just got a very tall player, Elmer Soderblom, who is 6-foot-8. This is a big change for their team.
By Newsroom | Sports, Hockey |

The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired Elmer Soderblom, a 24-year-old Swedish winger, from the Detroit Red Wings. The transaction, finalized just before the NHL trade deadline, involved a 2026 third-round draft pick moving from Pittsburgh to Detroit. Soderblom, standing at an imposing 6-foot-8 and weighing 252 pounds, brings significant physical stature to the Penguins' roster. He is currently under contract through the 2026-27 season, with an annual average value of $1.125 million.

Who is Elmer Soderblom? Penguins trade for tall youngster from Red Wings - 1

Soderblom’s NHL career thus far includes 86 regular-season games with the Red Wings, where he has registered 11 goals and 11 assists for a total of 22 points. This season alone, he has appeared in 39 games, scoring two goals and one assist. He also brings experience from 119 AHL games with the Grand Rapids Griffins, where he accumulated 54 points. His NHL tenure began during the 2022-23 season, marking his rookie campaign in the league.

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Who is Elmer Soderblom? Penguins trade for tall youngster from Red Wings - 2

The trade appears to be a strategic move for both franchises. For the Penguins, Soderblom offers a blend of size and potential, fitting into their plans for both immediate needs and future development. His substantial height positions him among the tallest players in Penguins franchise history.

Who is Elmer Soderblom? Penguins trade for tall youngster from Red Wings - 3

Detroit’s decision to move Soderblom coincides with other roster adjustments, potentially clearing a lineup spot for veteran winger David Perron, who was acquired by the Red Wings. The inclusion of Soderblom in the deal provides Detroit with an additional draft asset as they continue to manage their roster ahead of the deadline. This move suggests a broader strategy by Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman to reshape the team’s composition.

Soderblom's professional journey also includes 90 career games in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where he recorded 38 points. Notably, he has been a healthy scratch for 20 games this season, and his ice time has averaged just over 10 minutes per contest, including some duty on the penalty kill. He is the brother of Arvid Soderblom, a goaltender for the Chicago Blackhawks. The third-round pick exchanged in this trade was originally acquired by Pittsburgh from the San Jose Sharks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Pittsburgh Penguins trade for Elmer Soderblom from the Detroit Red Wings?
The Penguins wanted to add size and potential to their team. Elmer Soderblom is a very tall player who can help them now and in the future.
Q: What did the Detroit Red Wings get in return for Elmer Soderblom?
The Red Wings received a 2026 third-round draft pick from the Penguins. This helps them get more future players as they change their team.
Q: How big is Elmer Soderblom and what is his contract status?
Elmer Soderblom is 6-foot-8 and weighs 252 pounds. He is signed until the end of the 2026-27 season and makes $1.125 million each year.
Q: What are Elmer Soderblom's stats in the NHL and AHL?
Soderblom has played 86 NHL games with 11 goals and 11 assists. He also has 54 points in 119 AHL games.
Q: Why did the Red Wings trade Elmer Soderblom before the deadline?
Trading Soderblom helps the Red Wings make room on their team and get a draft pick for the future. They might be making space for other players like David Perron.