DetroitRedWings.com’s Jonathan Mills posted a notebook article in which he discussed the impressive prospect tournament performance by one Elmer Soderblom, a 6’8,” 249-pound forward who’s finding his way at the tournament:
Soderblom, who was Detroit’s 159th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, knows his large frame gives him an edge.
“I think I’m pretty much the tallest guy on the ice often,” Soderblom said. “I’m gonna use that to my advantage and do the best I can.”
Soderblom had a breakout 2021-22 season with Frolunda HC in the Swedish Hockey League, tallying 21 goals and 12 assists in 52 games.
“Everything went well,” said Soderblom, who was named the European Hockey Club’s Young Player of the Year at the 2022 Fenix Outdoor Hockey Awards Gala in June. “I had a high confidence, played my game and was just focusing on the things I did well.”
The 21-year-old said he’s made strides since being drafted by the Red Wings.
“Three years ago, I was not that smooth or comfortable with my body and big size,” Soderblom said. “I’m still working on it, but I’m getting used to my size and it’s getting better.”
