Bruins Acquire Defenseman Soderstrom from Blackhawks in Trade

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Bruins announced today that they have acquired defenseman Victor Soderstrom from the Chicago Blackhawks. The trade, confirmed on June 13, sends Soderstrom to Boston in exchange for fellow defenseman Ryan Mast and a seventh-round draft pick in 2025.

Soderstrom, 24, has had an impressive season in Sweden’s SHL, playing for Brynäs IF. In 49 games, the right-handed defenseman scored nine goals and added 28 assists for a total of 37 points. His performance earned him the title of the league’s top defenseman, the Börje Salming Trophy.

Before transitioning to Sweden, Soderstrom played in the Arizona Coyotes‘ organization for three seasons, appearing in 53 NHL games and scoring 11 points. The Gavle, Sweden native was originally drafted 11th overall by Arizona in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. After not re-signing as a restricted free agent, he chose to return to Sweden this past season.

The Blackhawks acquired Soderstrom’s rights earlier this year from Utah and decided to trade him due to the emergence of younger defensemen within their roster. Chicago is focusing on developing talent like Sam Rinzel and Artyom Levshunov, making it hard for Soderstrom to secure an NHL spot next season.

On the other side, the Bruins need depth on the right defense after trading Brandon Carlo to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Current right-side defensemen for the upcoming season include Charlie McAvoy and Andrew Peeke.

Ryan Mast, 22, was selected by the Bruins in the sixth round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He had a quiet season in the AHL with the Providence Bruins, recording just five assists in 37 games. Mast stands tall at 6 feet 5 inches and is known for his defensive skills

With this trade, Boston is hoping Soderstrom’s skills will translate better in their systems. The Bruins believe he still has potential to shine in the NHL and look forward to seeing him in team colors.