Blackhawks Bottom Line: Arvid Soderblom Still Has A Ways To Go

Over the course of the next month, Chicago Hockey Now will be profiling every Chicago Blackhawks player from the 2023-24 season. Today, will be goalie Arvid Soderblom.

Arvid Soderblom
Goaltender
Games Played: 32
(Record – GAA – SV%): 5-22-2, 3.92, .879
Contract Status:  Signed through 2024-25 (RFA)

The Short View

Chicago Blackhawks goalie Arvid Soderblom was given a little bit of an extended look as a backup this season. They haven’t identified the true star goalie of the future yet but his name was in consideration.

Soderblom has had some brilliant moments early in his season but there were some struggles at times. His goals against was pushing four, his save percentage was well below .900, and the team did almost little-to-no winning with him in the net. The talent is still there but he didn’t always inspire the confidence as Petr Mrazek did.

The Long View

Arvid Soderblom is still just 24 years old which is still young for an NHL goalie. It is going to take some time for him to put all of his potential together in this league.

The good news is that the Blackhawks have a long way to go too. With Drew Commesso and Adam Gajan also in the mix, the Hawks can do what they need to do to develop them the right way.

Petr Mrazek signed a two-year extension as a veteran goalie who can play at a high level while these guys work on their game. Soderblom will continue to slot in as the backup next year–unless Commesso gives him a run for his money or the Blackhawks opt to look elsewhere for help.

After next season, Soderblom is an unrestricted free agent. This upcoming summer and season is going to be huge for him and his chances of being an impact guy at the highest level of hockey in the world.

The Bottom Line for Arvid Soderblom

If Arvid Soderblom comes out and impresses next season, he might force their hand. He could be a part of the team for a long time if he continues to do his part.

If next year is another one like this year, time may run out. Windows of contention can open and close with no signs whatsoever. In a league where tandems are more important, Soderblom will need a better showing to stick around.

The Blackhawks have way too many impressive young prospects to take advantage of this time. They won’t wait around for Soderblom to be better if he isn’t good as soon as next year.

There is a lot of pressure to perform in 2024-25 but that is the way of the NHL. It is on Kyle Davidson and the staff to get him what he needs to be successful. A much better team in front of him is a great start.