Vasily Podkolzin continues to be a pivotal force for the Edmonton Oilers, delivering when the team faces elimination. After a 4-1 victory in Game 5 against the Anaheim Ducks, Podkolzin's impact was undeniable: he scored the opening goal on the Oilers' first shot, recorded eight hits, and posted a plus-2 rating in just over 12 minutes of ice time.
A Gift That Keeps Giving
The Oilers acquired Podkolzin from the Vancouver Canucks in the summer of 2024 for a fourth-round draft pick, a move that has proven to be a steal. His physical style and timely scoring have made him indispensable in the playoffs.
"I just like to play hard, play old style, especially when our season is on the line," Podkolzin said. "Everybody has to step up, and it starts with me. Trying to do my best so we keep winning games."
Setting the Tone
Podkolzin's goal came 1:22 into the first period, a wrist shot under the crossbar that silenced the Ducks. His physicality set the tone for the Oilers, who avoided elimination and forced a Game 6.
"He plays really, really hard," said captain Connor McDavid. "He's been one of our best players in these playoffs. That was a very big goal, that first goal he got for us, great shot."
Consistent Production
Podkolzin's goal was his second of the series and fifth point in five games, all at even strength. Over the past two playoff runs, he has 15 points in 27 games, all at even strength. He set career highs in the regular season with 19 goals and 37 points, with 34 at even strength.
"A lot of Podkolzin's game is playing simple," said Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch. "But he's got real skills. You saw that goal where he takes a knuckler pass, he catches it, he releases it and he puts it away in a very small area."
From First-Round Pick to Difference-Maker
Drafted 10th overall by Vancouver in 2019, Podkolzin struggled to find his role with the Canucks. The Oilers had no expectations for him, allowing him to thrive.
"Sometimes a team drafts a player in the first round and they expect him to be just that, and then another team trades for him and they have no expectations for the player," an NHL source said. "They're thinking let's see what happens."
Podkolzin's old-school, hard-nosed style has made him a fan favorite and a key contributor in high-stakes games. As the Oilers push to extend their season, his presence will be crucial.
