Edmonton Oilers veteran Mattias Ekholm opens up on his plans and final days with the team

Mattias Ekholm is one of the most prominent veterans of the Edmonton Oilers, who has been associated with the team since 2023. After a successful run on the team, the Swedish player is finally entering his last days with the team, as his contract period with the Oilers is coming to an end soon.

Owing to this situation, the veteran has addressed his future and spoken about the Connor McDavid factor in Edmonton’s long-term plans. According to the 35-year-old Swedish player, he really wants to stay in Edmonton, but he understands the team must first sort out the contract of their superstar, Connor McDavid. Let’s take a look at what Mattias Ekholm has to say about his future in the NHL and with the Oilers.

Mattias Ekholm addresses his future as he enters the final year of his contract

Mattias Ekholm has been a force in the Edmonton Oilers ever since he shifted from the Nashville Predators. Despite his advanced age, he is still an essential member of the team because of his reputation for defensive dependability and unexpected attacking talent.

He played more than 22 minutes a game and scored 33 points in 65 games last season. However, Ekholm is currently counting his final days at the team.Speaking about his prospects, Ekholm expressed his desire to remain in Edmonton. “Absolutely, I want to stay in Edmonton, but I know you have to take care of the big boys first. Once he (McDavid) gets done, I’m sure we will talk. I’m getting up there (age), but I know what I bring,” Ekholm told Edmonton sports radio host Jason Gregor.

Previously, he also spoke about his contract period, stating, Obviously, it’s a contract year, but I’m also getting up there where I know what I bring on the ice and it’s not a huge deal (to wait). I also have a family, so I obviously want to make sure we have security of some sort.”

Revisiting Mattias Ekholm’s days in the Edmonton Oilers

After joining the Oilers, Ekholm has arguably played some of the best hockey of his career. He set a career-high with 11 goals during the 2023-24 season and was instrumental in helping the Edmonton Oilers reach its second straight Stanley Cup Final.

According to the NHL, Ekholm had 45 points with 11 goals and 34 assists. He led the Oilers at plus-44 during his second season in Edmonton. He averaged 21:57 of ice time in the playoffs and became the second defenseman in team history to score a goal in three straight games during the Western Conference Second Round against the Vancouver Canucks. Also Read: Why re-signing Mattias Ekholm should be the Oilers’ top priority before the 2025 season begins | NHL News - Times of IndiaHis 68:49 of total short-handed time on ice helped the Oilers to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, a 2-1 loss to the Florida Panthers.