The Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan filed a notebook article regarding several points from the Red Wings prospects‘ 5-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday afternoon/evening, including this note about Elmer Soderblom:
Friday’s game was the first test for forward Elmer Soderblom, who is making his North American debut.
The 6-foot-6 forward is likely going to begin the season in Grand Rapids. But after a 21-goal season in Frolunda (Sweden) last season, expectations have grown for the 2019 sixth-round draft pick.
“They’ve told me they want to see (here) what I did in Frolunda,” said Soderblom, who had an assist and one shot with a minus-two rating against Columbus. “Just keep playing my (game) and add some physicality, play with my size even more. That’s what I have to do to be able to take a spot.”
Soderblom’s big body (6-foot-6, 220-pounds) was evident in the offensive zone, hanging around the net and especially blocking the view of goaltenders while stationed net-front on the power play.
“I’m pretty much the tallest guy on the ice often,” Soderblom said. “I just have to use it to my advantage and do the best I can.”
