The Edmonton Oilers continue their current run going of keeping their core intact by getting yet another key contract signed just prior to the 25-26 season's start.
Via BR/Open Ice, the Oilers have extended defenseman Mattias Ekholm to a 3 year $4 million deal that will kick in upon conclusion of this season.
This is a nice friendly short term contract extension for the Oilers to make that should give them the tools they need to stay aggressive and keep building up the pipeline. Ekholm and the Oilers will look to gear up and bring the Stanley Cup to Edmonton during the Connor McDavid era.
What does this move mean for Edmonton?
Overall, compared to the mighty extensions that have been handed out to various NHL defenseman lately, this is a bargain for Edmonton. Ekholm has provided much needed depth and stability across his Oilers stint that the team desperately needed.
The Oilers current defensive core has come a long way since the addition of Ekholm. With a top 4 unit at the moment consisting of Ekholm, Bouchard, Nurse and Walman; the Oilers have suddenly constructed a formidable defensive group that can go toe for toe against the best the NHL has to offer.
Ekholm produced a best of 45 points in the 23-24 season with the Oilers. Across his entire 3 year stint with the team so far, he has amassed 24 goals and 68 assists for 92 points in 165 games since being acquired by the organization during the 2023 NHL trade deadline.