The Edmonton Oilers have revived their Top 100 Oilers of All Time list, and Mattias Ekholm has claimed the No. 41 spot on the updated 2025 version. Originally absent from the list crafted by the late Robin Brownlee in 2015, Ekholm's impact has been undeniable since joining the team.
Ken Holland, the Oilers' GM, deserves a nod for two pivotal decisions: signing Zach Hyman and trading for Mattias Ekholm. The latter, acquired from the Nashville Predators on February 28, 2023, involved sending Tyson Barrie, Reid Schaefer, and draft picks to Nashville. This move was quickly hailed as a win, but Ekholm's performance has exceeded expectations.
The Oilers needed a top-tier shutdown defenseman, and Ekholm fit the bill perfectly. His presence not only bolstered the blueline but also provided Evan Bouchard with a dependable partner.
With Ekholm anchoring the defense, Darnell Nurse and Cody Ceci could focus on more manageable assignments. Ekholm has been instrumental in three playoff runs, including two trips to the Stanley Cup Final.
Ekholm and his family embraced Edmonton wholeheartedly. His immediate impact was felt as he racked up 14 points in the final 21 games of the 2022-23 season.
His wife, Ida Bjornstad, was particularly excited about the move, being from a similar climate in northern Sweden. The family even stayed in Edmonton during the offseason, welcoming their third child.
It's refreshing to see Ekholm and his family so openly embrace the city, a sentiment not always shared by players in the past. This connection with the community has made him a fan favorite.
Ekholm's standout performance came during the 2024 Stanley Cup Final run. Partnered with Evan Bouchard, they logged 407 minutes of 5-on-5 play, outscoring opponents 22-12. Ekholm contributed five goals, showcasing his ability to both defend and support the offense.
In October, Ekholm signed a three-year extension with the Oilers, likely making Edmonton his final NHL stop. Even at 35, he's delivering top-pairing minutes, and with a cap hit reduced to $4 million, his value to the team is clear. The ultimate dream would be seeing his name etched on the Stanley Cup.
Ken Holland's acquisition of Ekholm was a strategic masterstroke. With 719 regular-season games and 75 playoff appearances under his belt, Ekholm brought the experience and stability the Oilers needed. While he might not have the flash of some other defensemen, his consistent performance and enthusiasm for playing alongside stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have made him an invaluable asset.
In the world of hockey, recognizing elite talent is key, and Mattias Ekholm's journey with the Oilers is a testament to that. His story isn't just about the stats-it's about the heart and commitment he's shown to the team and the city.