Edmonton Oilers winger Vasily Podkolzin is returning to the team following the sudden and unexpected death of his father, Alexander, last week.
The 24-year-old forward, had temporarily returned to his native Russia to be with his family. The news has cast a shadow over the young player’s offseason, and the Oilers put out a press release announcing he was taking a leave of absence saying:
"The Edmonton Oilers are saddened to share that Vasily Podkolzin's father Alexander tragically and suddenly passed away last night. The forward will be taking a leave of absence to return to Russia and be with his family. The Oilers extend heartfelt condolences to Podkolzin and his family during this difficult time."
Podkolzin set to return to Oilers
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed to the media that Podkolzin will fly back to Edmonton on Wednesday but emphasized that he will not participate in the preseason game scheduled that night against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena.
Podkolzin is expected to return to full action for the Oilers’ final preseason game on Friday against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena, giving him a chance to ease back into competitive play ahead of the regular season.
Podkolzin’s journey to Edmonton has been eventful in recent years. Drafted 10th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in 2019, he was considered one of the more polished Russian forwards of his draft class, combining speed, skill, and creativity on the ice.
Podkolzin broke out with the Oilers along Leon Draisaitl
After being traded to the Oilers last offseason, he posted 24 points (8 goals, 16 assists) over a full 82-game campaign, arguably one of the best seasons of his young career. This performance earned him a three-year, $8.85 million contract extension with Edmonton, reflecting the organization’s confidence in his ability to be a solid depth piece moving forward.
His great play has garnered the praise of his linemate Leon Draisaitl and management for his chemistry alongside the Oilers superstar.
Despite the challenges of dealing with a personal tragedy, Podkolzin’s return to Edmonton is expected to be a stabilizing moment both for himself and for the Oilers. As he prepares to rejoin his teammates, the team and fans alike will be watching closely, hopeful that he can channel his focus and skill into another productive season while honoring the memory of his father.
Perhaps, unlike the last couple of seasons, the Oilers can truly honor his memory by hoisting the Stanley Cup, rather than watching from the sidelines.