Former Coyotes first-rounder changes agents, may play in Europe this season

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Cooper Godin
July 22, 2024 (1:29 PM)

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A former Arizona Coyotes first-rounder has decided to change agents and may play in Europe this season after becoming a restricted free agent earlier this month.

When the clock struck Noon Eastern Time on Monday, July 1st, former Arizona Coyotes first-round pick Victor Soderstrom officially became a restricted free agent and in the weeks since, there appears to be no talks between the two sides.

Last week, it was reported that Utah was exploring trade options for Soderstrom and while that still could be a possibility, there's a chance he may not be in North America at all next season.

According to Craig Morgan of PHNX Sports, Soderstrom has changed agents and is no longer represented by Quartexx Hockey. Morgan added that there's some thought that Soderstrom may decide to play overseas in Europe for the 2024-25 season. If he decides to do so, he'll still remain apart of the Utah HC organization as he was issued a qualifying offer last month, ensuring they retain his rights.

"Also hearing that 2019 11th overall pick Victor Söderström has switched agencies: no longer repped by @QuartexxHockey.
Utah has been open to signing him but also exploring trades.
There is some thought that he may decide to stay/play in Europe." Morgan said.

Soderstrom, 23, came over to North America in 2021 and so far, has spent the majority of his career in the American Hockey League with the Tucson Roadrunners, but has also appeared in 53 NHL games for the now-dissolved Arizona Coyotes.

During the 2023-24 campaign, the Gavle, Sweden native posted career-hights in goals, assists and points, helping Tucson to a playoff appearance. In 62 games last season with the Roadrunners, he registered 32 points (nine goals, 23 assists), 34 penalty minutes and was a minus-eight.

We'll have to wait and see how this situation develops in the coming weeks and months, but Utah is likely hoping that they'll be able to agree to terms on a contract and have him in the system for the 2024-25 campaign, rather than him playing in Europe.