Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images

Mattias Ekholm Opens Up About His Future with the Edmonton Oilers Ahead of Final Contract Year

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Tom Banks | Last updated Sep 5, 2025 4:42 PM ET

Mattias Ekholm has been fantastic for the Oilers, but with free agency looming in 2026, he's expressed his desire to stay in Edmonton beyond that.

The Edmonton Oilers have been so close to the Stanley Cup in the past two years, but with the roster being not quite as good as the Florida Panthers, they've fallen short in both attempts.

Now, they've had another busy off-season, but with a massive extension looming for Connor McDavid, this team will be even more up against the salary cap as they look to make the Cup Finals for the third straight season.

Mattias Ekholm addresses his future in Edmonton

However, McDavid isn't the only one eligible for an extension, with Mattias Ekholm also set to hit unrestricted free agency in 2026 if he can reach a prior agreement with the team.

Now, the star defenseman has addressed that possibility, admitting that while he wants to stay in Edmonton, he understands they need to take care of their superstars first.

'Absolutely I want to stay in Edmonton, but I know you have to take care of the big boys first. Once he (McDavid) gets done I'm sure we will talk. I'm getting up there (age) but I know what I bring.'

These comments confirm that the veteran wants to remain in Edmonton, but they also suggest he isn't willing to take a pay cut to stay, as he clearly knows what he brings at both ends of the ice.

Only time will tell if the Oilers can get a deal done with Ekholm, as they're likely to wait on him to see if his play remains at a high level this season, but if they're confident he can bring them a Stanley Cup, they'll try their best to bring him back.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: