The Edmonton Oilers have experienced a remarkable turnaround since acquiring Swedish defenseman Mattias Ekholm from the Nashville Predators earlier this season. Ekholm’s impact on the team has been undeniable, and his presence has significantly bolstered the Oilers’ defensive prowess. Mattias Ekholm gamechanger
In just 19 games with the Oilers, Ekholm has tallied three goals, nine assists, and a total of 12 points. More impressively, he boasts a staggering +25 plus/minus rating, while averaging 20:43 minutes of ice time per game. The Oilers have been on a tear since Ekholm’s arrival, posting a 16-2-1 record and solidifying their position in the Pacific division standings.
The trade that brought Ekholm to Edmonton, along with a 2024 sixth-round pick, saw the departure of Tyson Barrie, Reid Schaefer, a 2023 first-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick to Nashville in late February. The Oilers’ management must be thrilled with the immediate impact of this trade, as Ekholm has proven to be a critical piece in their pursuit of playoff success.
Sitting comfortably in second place in the Pacific division, the Oilers have clinched either first or second place in the division for the playoffs with just two regular-season games remaining. This strong run of form can be attributed in large part to Ekholm’s presence on the blue line, which has addressed the team’s long-standing defensive struggles. Mattias Ekholm gamechanger
