Mattias Ekholm’s arrival in 2022-23 changed everything for the Edmonton Oilers.
The first seven years of the Connor McDavid era in Edmonton resulted in just three playoff series wins. The three years to follow with Ekholm in the fold: seven series wins and two Stanley Cup Finals appearances.
It should come as no surprise to see the success the team has had in the two-and-a-quarter seasons since acquiring the veteran blueliner from Nashville. He’s been the perfect complement to star defenseman Evan Bouchard and has displayed offensive abilities that many weren’t expecting.
Given all of that, you would think locking him up to an extension is a no-brainer for the Oilers; however, it’s not that easy. Ekholm isn’t getting any younger and struggled with injuries last season, which clouds the situation as he enters a contract year.
With training camps approaching, he recently spoke to Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal about his future and desire to remain an Oiler.
“It’s a contract year, but I’m also getting up there in age. I know what I bring on the ice, but I also have a family, and I want to make sure we have security. Do I want to stay in Edmonton? Absolutely. I guess there will be discussions, but you’re going to be talking to a guy in a few minutes who’s the big focus. I’ve been around long enough in this league to know you take care of the big boys first,” Ekholm said.
‘Do I want to stay in Edmonton? Absolutely’: Healthy Mattias Ekholm eyeing new contract with Oilers https://t.co/pxNdlzeKo4 pic.twitter.com/d8YlonoKuT
— Edmonton Journal (@edmontonjournal) September 6, 2025
The 35-year-old is heading into the final season of the four-year, $25 million contract he originally signed with the Predators back in 2021.
Ekholm is back to full health
After an injury-plagued 2024-25 campaign that forced him to miss a large chunk of the postseason, Mattias Ekholm is healthy heading into a pivotal year.
He tore his adductor late last season and attempted to play through the ailment in the finals, which was no easy task. Following a summer of rest and recovery, he revealed how he’s feeling now in the conversation with Matheson.
“Now, I’m excited (healthy again). If I lose the puck, at least I know I can get it back,” Ekholm said.
There is a lot of noise and uncertainty around the Edmonton Oilers right now, but one thing that is certain is the importance of having a healthy Mattias Ekholm in 2025-26.
