The Edmonton Oilers have made a notable trade, acquiring forward Vasily Podkolzin from the Vancouver Canucks for a fourth-round draft pick. Analysts suggest this move could prove to be a significant win for the team.
Podkolzin, selected 10th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, has struggled to find his scoring touch over the past two seasons. However, the Oilers are optimistic about his potential, as they secured him at a low cost. Oilers writer Jim Matheson likened this trade to the acquisition of Klim Kostin in 2022.
Kostin, also a big-bodied Russian forward, had a rocky start in the NHL before finding some success with Edmonton. While Kostin played only one season with the Oilers, he earned a loyal fan base for his tough play and ability to contribute offensively. Podkolzin now has a chance to replicate that success on a team aiming for a championship.
During his earlier time with the Canucks, Podkolzin showed promise, tallying 14 goals and 26 points in the 2021-22 season. However, his recent performance has been disappointing, managing only four goals in his last 58 games. Despite this downturn, his prior offensive output exceeds that of Kostin during his time in the NHL.
The Oilers have signed Podkolzin to a manageable two-year contract worth $1 million annually, making this trade low-risk. If he can add physicality, energy, and the occasional goal to the bottom six, this deal could become a major success for the organization.
Fans are hopeful that Podkolzin will embrace Edmonton as Kostin did, fostering a positive relationship with the city and the team. If he can turn his career around this season, he may well become a new favorite among Oilers supporters.