The Boston Bruins have a new face on their defensive roster: Victor Soderstrom. On June 13, 2025, Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney acquired the rights to the 24-year-old defenseman from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for defenseman Ryan Mast and a 2025 seventh-round draft pick. Just a day later, on June 14, the Bruins announced that they had signed Soderstrom to a one-year, two-way contract with a $775,000 NHL cap hit for the 2025-26 season.
Soderstrom, who hails from Gavle, Sweden, was originally drafted 11th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. While he possesses undeniable talent, he has yet to firmly establish himself as a full-time NHL player. This move to Boston represents a fresh opportunity for the young defenseman to prove his worth and potentially fill a need on the Bruins' blue line.
Before joining the Bruins organization, Soderstrom spent the 2024-25 season playing for Brynäs IF of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). In 49 games, he showcased his offensive capabilities, recording an impressive nine goals and 28 assists for a total of 37 points. His outstanding performance earned him the Börje Salming Trophy, awarded to the SHL's best defenseman, and he also led the league with a plus-28 rating.
Prior to his return to Sweden, Soderstrom gained experience in both the NHL and AHL. He played 53 NHL games with the Arizona Coyotes, tallying one goal and 10 assists. He also skated in 170 career AHL games, all with the Tucson Roadrunners, amassing 16 goals and 66 assists for 82 points.
Soderstrom is a right-shot defenseman, a position where the Bruins have been looking to add depth. Standing at 6-foot and weighing 196 pounds, he is known for his smooth skating, hockey IQ, and two-way abilities. Scouts describe him as an intelligent player with excellent vision and passing skills, capable of both starting the rush and quarterbacking the play from the point. He is also recognized for his defensive prowess, utilizing a quick stick and strong positioning to disrupt opponents.
While Soderstrom's offensive upside is evident, some scouts have noted that his defensive awareness could be improved. He has a tendency to pinch and join the attack, which can sometimes leave his team vulnerable to odd-man rushes. However, his strengths as a puck-carrier and his ability to make smart decisions in all three zones make him a valuable asset.
The signing of Soderstrom addresses a need for the Bruins, who have been looking to bolster their defensive depth, particularly on the right side. With Charlie McAvoy and Andrew Peeke as the only right-shot defensemen currently under contract, Soderstrom has a legitimate chance to compete for a regular spot in the lineup during training camp. At the very least, he provides a solid option as a seventh defenseman, capable of stepping in when needed.
Bruins fans should be excited about the potential that Victor Soderstrom brings to the team. He is a skilled, mobile defenseman with a strong offensive game and the potential to develop into a reliable two-way player.
