The Edmonton Oilers’ acquisition of Vasily Podkolzin from the Vancouver Canucks marks a significant move as they aim to bolster their forward depth. Podkolzin, at 23 years old, has shown promise over his first three NHL seasons, contributing 35 points (18 goals, 17 assists) in 137 games. As a former 10th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, he carries the potential to grow into a more impactful player.
His limited playoff experience, with two games against the Oilers in the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs, also suggests he could benefit from a change of scenery and more opportunities in Edmonton. The Oilers gave up a fourth-round pick in the 2025 draft, initially acquired from Ottawa in a trade that also brought them Roby Jarventie.
This trade seems to offer Edmonton a chance to add depth and skill to their roster, while Vancouver gains future draft capital. Both teams could benefit, depending on Podkolzin’s development in Edmonton and Vancouver’s long-term rebuilding strategy.
