Blackhawks Acquire Shea Weber... Contract, 2 Prospects from Utah

Raty was a fifth-round selection by Utah (formerly the Arizona Coyotes) in 2019. Last season, Raty posted an impressive 44 points (15 goals, 29 assists) in 55 AHL games, earning himself a promotion to the NHL. However, the forward's numbers have regressed this season, posting just 19 points (four goals, 15 assists) in 50 AHL games. As a pending free agent, Raty will likely be kept around to see if he can find his form in Rockford. 

As for Soderstrom's prospect is unsigned and is currently playing over in Sweden. Once the 11th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, Soderstrom still has high upside on the blue line, despite having left the NHL and ventured to Sweden. 

Although Soderstrom didn't work out long-term with Utah, he could be a fun swing by Kyle Davidson. The right-handed defenseman has a strong season in the SHL, tallying 36 points (nine goals, 27 assists) in 47 games. Perhaps Davidson found another long-term, right-handed defenseman. Even if it doesn't work, it's worth taking a flier on. 

Soderstrom will have to sign with Chicago in order to come back to the United States, but if the Blackhawks can present him ample opportunity on the right side in the NHL, they could give him the ultimate tryout. With Seth Jones' departure, Louis Crevier and Connor Murphy are the only NHL-ready right-handed defensemen on the roster. With Artyom Levshunov expected to need at least another year of seasoning in the AHL, there are few barriers for Soderstrom and time on the right side of the Blackhawks' blue line. 

He is only 24 years old, so a calculated swing on a guy like Soderstrom could pay huge dividends for Chicago down the road. In addition, taking on Weber's contract frees up Utah, but shouldn't hinder Chicago from making some notable moves during the summer.