Ahead of the 2026 NHL trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Penguins acquired forward Elmer Soderblom from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick. With the Penguins needing more forward depth, it was understandable that they brought him in. Soderblom was having a quiet season with the Red Wings before the trade, as he had just two goals and one assist in 39 games. However, getting a fresh start with the Penguins has undoubtedly been benefiting Soderblom, as he has been off to a strong start in Pittsburgh. In 16 games with the Penguins since being acquired from Detroit, he has recorded four goals, four assists, eight points, and 28 hits. With this, the big forward has not only been providing the Penguins with more physicality but also some solid secondary offensive production. Soderblom has also been red-hot for the Penguins as of late, as he has three goals and six points over his last six games alone. With Soderblom already taking his game to a new level with the Penguins and still being just 24 years old, it is hard not to like this move early on for Pittsburgh. The 6-foot-8 forward has been a very good addition to the Penguins' roster, and it will be fascinating to see how he builds on his strong start with the Metropolitan Division club from here.
