The Boston Bruins have made a strategic move by acquiring defenseman Victor Soderstrom from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for defenseman Ryan Mast and a 2025 seventh-round draft pick. Soderstrom, 24, has shown promise in the Swedish Hockey League, winning the Borje Salming Trophy as the best defenseman, but his development in the NHL has been uncertain. Despite struggling to find his footing, Soderstrom’s potential and recent interest in returning to the NHL might make him a valuable addition to the Bruins.
The trade gives Soderstrom a new opportunity to prove himself, although it’s unclear if he’ll join the Bruins immediately or start in the AHL. His size (6-foot, 196 pounds) and defensive skills could fit well with Boston’s needs. On the other hand, Ryan Mast, a bigger defenseman (6-foot-5, 217 pounds) who was drafted by Boston in the sixth round, has shown potential in the AHL with Providence, tallying five assists in 37 games.
This trade could pay off for both teams depending on how Soderstrom adapts to the Bruins and how Mast develops further in the AHL. The move reflects the Bruins’ ongoing efforts to bolster their roster and create opportunities for young players.
