According to Mattias Ekholm, the Oilers plan to get even better next season

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Sam Jones
July 27, 2024 (2:06 PM)

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In a heartfelt Swedish interview, Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm shared his reflections on his recent trade to the team and his ongoing journey in the NHL.

His insights reveal not just a seasoned player, but one intensely driven by the near-miss of last season's Stanley Cup finale.

Ekholm's tone was both optimistic and reflective as he discussed the blend of success and the lingering taste of defeat.

"It's hard to be dissatisfied with so much positive happening, but I'm still sitting here and haven't won. Somewhere inside, it burns and gnaws at me," Ekholm confessed.

The defenseman is not just playing for victory but is propelled by a deeper desire for redemption. When asked about his drive for the upcoming season, he was unequivocal.

"Yes, I think we have a good team this season. Maybe even better than last season. But then we have to execute. I think we played 106 games this season, and it's not easy to find your way back to a new final."

His narrative didn't shy away from the painful Game 7 loss to the Panthers, acknowledging their prowess at a critical moment. Ekholm staunchly defended teammates Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl against critiques over their scoring droughts in the finals, emphasizing their resilience through injuries and a grueling season.

"To criticize when we were one goal away from overtime in Game 7, you have to realize that we faced a good team that was simply a bit better when it mattered."

The interview also touched on the emotional challenges of his trade from Nashville, where he had spent the entirety of his NHL career until the move to Edmonton. The transition was stark, but Ekholm expressed genuine appreciation for the warm reception from Oilers fans and the city's embrace of his high-caliber defensive skills.

At 34, Ekholm faces the realities of aging in a sport that demands peak physical performance. Yet, his role on the Oilers has only grown, particularly with his pairing with the emerging star defenseman Evan Bouchard. Together, they form a formidable duo that enhances Edmonton's defensive strategy. This synergy, combined with the potent offense from the Oilers' top line, positions the team as serious contenders for the Stanley Cup, bolstering the collective confidence required for another deep playoff run.

Reflecting on the season, Ekholm's comments highlight not just the personal ambitions of a veteran player but also encapsulate the broader aspirations of a team on the cusp of greatness, melding experience, skill, and an unquenched thirst for the ultimate NHL accolade.

Source: OilersNation