While all eyes in Edmonton are on Connor McDavid’s next mega-deal, one of his most important teammates is perfectly happy to wait his turn.
The Oilers have several major contracts to sort out, but veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm knows exactly where he stands in the pecking order, and he’s fine with it. With just one season left on his current deal, he is prioritizing the team’s long-term stability over his own contract extension, a move that speaks volumes about his role in the locker room.
Why Is Mattias Ekholm Willing To Wait for the Oilers’ ‘Big Boys’?
For Mattias Ekholm, the team comes first. He understands that securing the future of franchise cornerstones is the top priority for the Edmonton Oilers. He recently made it clear that while he wants to remain in Edmonton, he knows the line starts behind superstars like Connor McDavid.
With Leon Draisaitl and Evan Bouchard already signed to new deals, McDavid is the final “big boy” who needs a new contract.
“Absolutely, I want to stay in Edmonton, but I know you have to take care of the big boys first,” said Ekholm. “Once he (McDavid) gets done, I’m sure we will talk.”
Since arriving from the Nashville Predators in a February 2023 trade, Ekholm has been a rock on the Oilers’ blue line, logging heavy minutes in critical situations. However, there’s no denying he’s on the back end of his career, having turned 35 in May. Despite his age, Ekholm is confident in his ability to contribute at a high level.
“I’m getting up there (in terms of age), but I know what I bring,” Ekholm said.
What Does the Future Hold for the Veteran Defenseman?
Concerns about his age are compounded by recent health issues. Ekholm revealed he suffered a torn adductor muscle during the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers. The injury severely limited his physical style of play when the team needed it most. He assures fans, however, that he is recovering well.
“I feel great, I feel a lot better,” he explained. “It was tough just ’cause you’re more out there to survive than creating something or playing your game.”
RELATED: Leon Draisaitl Fully Aware of ‘Things at Play’ With Connor McDavid’s Noisy Oilers Extension Pending
The Swedish native was originally drafted by the Predators in 2009 and was a key part of the Nashville team that reached the 2017 Stanley Cup Final, where they lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins in six games. In 2021, Nashville re-signed Ekholm to his current four-year, $25 million deal, which carries a $6.25 million salary cap hit.
Throughout his career with the Predators and Oilers, Ekholm has played in 884 NHL games, tallying 86 goals and 274 assists. In the postseason, he has added 12 goals and 45 assists in 112 career postseason games.
