Ekholm Secures His Future with the Oilers After McDavid’s Extension
The Edmonton Oilers, after securing Connor McDavid’s contract extension, have locked down another key piece for the team’s success: defenseman Mattias Ekholm.
Ekholm, 35, signed a three-year, $12 million extension, which will begin in the 2026-27 season. The Swedish defenseman is currently in the final year of his contract, signed in 2021 with the Nashville Predators.
In his 15th NHL season, Ekholm recorded 33 points (9 goals, 24 assists) in 65 games. His average time on ice was 22:11, the third highest on the team. Ekholm is a fundamental player in the team’s defense, participating in both penalty killing and power play.
Ekholm’s signing comes shortly after McDavid agreed to a two-year contract extension.
The Oilers, after their second consecutive loss to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, are looking to consolidate their roster. The team has participated in the postseason for six consecutive seasons.
