Vasily Podkolzin's unexpected trade: A journey from IKEA to Edmonton

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Sam Jones
August 20, 2024 (6:38 PM)

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While hunting for furniture at IKEA in Vancouver, Vasily Podkolzin, the newly minted Edmonton Oilers forward, received a life-changing call.

Amidst the aisles of Scandinavian designs, the call from Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin informed him of his immediate trade to the Oilers. This unexpected news turned a routine shopping trip into a pivotal career moment for Podkolzin.

"My wife and I were driving to IKEA to look at furniture for our new apartment when the Canucks general manager called and said I had been traded to Edmonton," Podkolzin shared with RG.org. "We talked briefly and thanked each other. Then the Oilers general manager called and said they were waiting for me on the team."

Reflecting on his trade, Podkolzin expressed his initial shock, a sentiment understandable given it was the first trade of his professional career. After processing the surprise, his focus swiftly shifted towards his future contributions to the Oilers.

"Of course, I was shocked by the trade," admitted Podkolzin. "After all, this is the first such experience in my career. Now I've realized it. I want to continue preparing for the season and arrive at the new team in good shape. It's important to fit in; Edmonton is assembling a good team. I hope I can help them win."

At 23 years old, Podkolzin's brief stint with the Canucks yielded modest results-two assists in nineteen games and a more productive run in the AHL with Abbotsford, scoring fifteen goals and thirteen assists through 44 games. His move to Edmonton, exchanged for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick, marks a fresh chapter aimed at greater NHL success.

Podkolzin's readiness to embrace this new challenge speaks volumes about his adaptability and professional maturity. He acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the NHL, viewing this trade not just as a career disruption but as an auspicious opportunity to ascend within the league.

"I've been in Vancouver for two weeks now. I had a settled life here, but the NHL is a business, and a trade can happen anytime. This trade is a good opportunity for me as a player. I want to play and win as much as possible; that's the main thing. I'll be flying to Edmonton soon, I think in two weeks. Now, my wife and I will sort out all the daily issues in Vancouver, and then we'll get ready for the new place."

As Podkolzin packs up his life in Vancouver, his tale underscores the often unpredictable and whirlwind nature of professional sports, where a simple day out can turn into a significant career juncture. The Oilers' fans eagerly anticipate the skills and fervor Podkolzin is set to bring to the ice, hoping it drives their team closer to Stanley Cup aspirations.

Source: RG.org
Podkolzin Was On His Way To Furniture Store When He Learned About Trade To Oilers