STUD - Mattias Ekholm
The Viking, Mattias Ekholm, has found a home in Edmonton after being acquired via trade late two seasons ago. His presence has been a stabilizing force for a once-vulnerable Oilers defense, and his leadership and experience have been instrumental in helping the development of young offensive defenseman Evan Bouchard. Ekholm’s ability to mentor and elevate Bouchard's game has added much-needed balance to Edmonton's blue line, which had been a long-standing area of concern for the team.
So far this season, though the Oilers have yet to record a win, Ekholm continues to make an impact on both ends of the ice. His defensive prowess has been key in limiting high-danger scoring chances from opposing teams, but what’s often overlooked is his ability to contribute offensively. Ekholm already has two assists to his name this season, helping to jumpstart an Oilers offense that has been struggling to find consistency.
As a seasoned veteran, Ekholm brings not only skill but also leadership to the locker room. His calm demeanor and understanding of the game allow him to play a significant role in keeping the team grounded during tough stretches, such as the Oilers' slow start to this campaign. While Edmonton's high-powered offense has struggled to find the back of the net early on, Ekholm's contributions from the back end provide a much-needed boost, helping to create offensive opportunities while still fulfilling his defensive duties.
For the Oilers to turn things around and start competing at the level expected of them, Ekholm will need to continue to play a major role in anchoring the defense while also helping spark the offense. His contributions might not always make the highlight reels, but his steady presence on both ends of the ice will be crucial as the Oilers aim to climb back into the win column and chase their Stanley Cup aspirations.