DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings have moved forward Elmer Soderblom, shipping the towering winger to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, Detroit secures a 2026 third-round draft pick. The transaction occurred on the recent trade deadline.
Soderblom, standing at a considerable 6-foot-8 and weighing 252 pounds, has seen limited NHL action this season. In 39 appearances, he registered two goals and one assist for a total of three points. His NHL career, spanning parts of three seasons, all with Detroit, amounts to 86 regular-season games and 22 points (11 goals, 11 assists).
The move suggests a recalibration for the Red Wings, who appear to be trading a player described as a "giant skill project" for a more conventional draft asset. This might indicate a shift in strategic focus, perhaps favoring players who can more reliably establish physical presence and finish plays within the scoring areas. Soderblom’s departure follows another Red Wings acquisition of forward David Perron from the Ottawa Senators for a conditional fourth-round pick.
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Soderblom’s contract extends through the 2026-27 season, carrying an annual average value of $1.125 million. He has also accumulated AHL statistics, posting 54 points (23 goals, 31 assists) over 119 career games with the Grand Rapids Griffins.
While Soderblom possesses notable size and perceived "quality hands" for his frame, reports suggest he hasn't consistently leveraged his physical attributes to the fullest. The Penguins, reportedly in a 'retooling' phase, have taken a chance on his potential, with the third-round pick considered a low-risk acquisition from their vantage point.