It’s not the signing we have all been eagerly and anxiously anticipating for months, but it does keep a new fan favourite in Oil Country for a few more years. This morning, the Edmonton Oilers have announced the signing of winger Vasily Podkolzin to a three-year contract extension with an AAV of $2.95M.
Three more years of Vasily Podgoalzin!
Acquired for a fourth round pick over the 2024 offseason, Vasily Podkolzin was a player looking for a fresh start and a new role in a different city. After a strong rookie season with the Vancouver Canucks, Podkolzin began to stagnate in his development and spent more and more time in the AHL.
After the trade to Edmonton, he became a regular fixture in the lineup through the 2024–25 season, playing in a career high 82 games with another 22 in the playoffs. Podkolzin even spent significant time on Leon Draisaitl’s line after Draisaitl publicly (to this day) continues to praise his work ethic and contributions on the ice.
Podkolzin is one of the hardest working players on the team, always putting in extra time in practice and spending hours with the coaching staff to refine his game. This contract is a reward for his efforts.
The presumed spot moving forward for Podkolzin is alongside Draisaitl, given the chemistry the two share on the ice and how much easier he makes the game for Draisaitl. Though that will not be a permanent place in the lineup, especially if Podkolzin’s offence does not improve this season. Nevertheless, a physical, intelligent, and hard working winger will fit well anywhere in the lineup.
Podkolzin quickly endeared himself to Oilers fans in his debut season, and we are more than happy with this extension to keep him around for a few more years!
