The Edmonton Oilers struck gold when they acquired Mattias Ekholm from the Nashville Predators during the 2023 Trade Deadline. The trade, which saw Tyson Barrie, Reid Schaefer, and two draft picks head to Nashville in exchange for Ekholm, has paid off handsomely for the Oilers. Ekholm has exceeded expectations, showcasing elite defensive skills while also serving as a valuable mentor for emerging talent like Evan Bouchard. His offensive contributions have been noteworthy as well, setting career highs in goals and tying his best in points.
Despite being primarily recognized for his offensive prowess, Ekholm’s defensive prowess warrants serious consideration for the Norris Trophy this season. While the award traditionally emphasizes offensive output, Ekholm’s two-way impact deserves recognition. His offensive statistics, including 11 goals and 44 points, rank him among the top defenders on the team and highlight his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive stability.
Throughout his career, spanning over 815 games, Ekholm has consistently displayed his versatility, tallying 77 goals and 249 assists. Since joining the Oilers, he has added 15 goals and 43 assists in 96 games, boasting an impressive points-per-game average of 0.60. His arrival has bolstered the Oilers’ defensive depth, addressing a longstanding area of concern and contributing significantly to the team’s success.
While Ekholm may not be mentioned in the same breath as some of the league’s top defenders like Cale Makar or Victor Hedman, his impact on the Oilers’ performance cannot be overstated. Despite being an aging veteran, Ekholm continues to be a key contributor on both ends of the ice, providing stability and leadership to the team’s blue line.
As the Oilers gear up for the playoffs, they will lean heavily on Ekholm’s experience and skill set to make a deep postseason run. Alongside Bouchard, Ekholm has the potential to emerge as a standout performer in the playoffs and lead the Oilers towards their first Stanley Cup victory in over three decades. With Ekholm’s steady play and leadership, the Oilers are poised for success both now and in the future.