Pittsburgh has become a home for former Detroit Red Wings players looking for keys to unlock their NHL potential.
First, it was Anthony Mantha. PHN’s Dan Kingerski writes today about how Mantha’s move to Pittsburgh helped him to be a 30-goal scorer for the first time at the NHL level. Now, Elmer Soderblom is emerging as a more significant contributor than he was in Detroit.
The Red Wings moved him to the Penguins for a third round pick at the NHL trade deadline.
The 6-foot-8 Soderblom is still a work in progress. He is playing on Pittsburgh’s fourth line with Connor Dewar and Noel Acciari.
But he does have three goals and three assists for six points in his last six games. He was plus-four in that span as the playoff-driving Penguins went 4-2. Soderblom shows 23 hits in his past 11 games as he continues to explore how to take advantage of his size and reach at the NHL level.
Red Wings In Case You Missed It
Michael Rasmussen is likely done for the rest of the season, according to coach Todd McLellan’s postgame press conference.
The Red Wings don’t have anyone to blame for their NHL playoff collapse except them.
What Patrick Kane had to say about an ill-advised penalty that cost his Red Wings dearly.
Red Wings Extra
Detroit prospect Eddie Genborg (44th, 2025) has a goal, an assist, 13 shots on goal and four penalty minutes in his first seven games with the Grand Rapids Griffins. . . According to MoneyPuck.com, the Red Wings’ playoff probability is now 6.3%. . . Carter Mazur recorded three hits in only 6:55 of playing time against Columbus. . . The Griffins play their final two regular-season home games this weekend against Chicago and Rockford. . .
Hockey Now Digest
Boston: Morgan Geekie registered a hat trick, but the Bruins still fell in overtime to Carolina. Boston Bruins
Florida: Injuries still piling up even though the Panthers are eliminated. Florida Panthers.
San Jose: Sheng Peng offers that the Sharks have brought power and belief back into the dressing room. San Jose Sharks.