The Edmonton Oilers will begin their 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs campaign without one of their most dependable defensemen. Mattias Ekholm has been ruled out for the entire first-round series due to an undisclosed lower-body injury, dealing a significant blow to Edmonton’s blue line as they prepare for a highly competitive postseason.
The 34-year-old veteran has been a key presence on the Oilers’ back end since joining the team in a trade from the Nashville Predators last season. Known for his calm demeanor, positional awareness, and ability to log heavy minutes, Ekholm played in 78 games this season, registering 6 goals, 28 assists, and maintaining a +17 rating. He has also been instrumental on the penalty kill and regularly matched up against opposing top lines.
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed Ekholm’s absence in a press conference Monday, noting that while the injury is not considered long-term, the team is proceeding with caution. “Mattias is a warrior and wanted to play, but we have to think long-term,” Knoblauch said. “We’re hopeful he’ll be ready if we advance to the second round.”
Edmonton is set to face the Los Angeles Kings in the opening round—a familiar opponent in recent playoff history. The Kings boast a fast, aggressive forecheck and a deep offensive core, which makes the absence of a stabilizing presence like Ekholm all the more significant.
The Oilers will now look to younger defensemen like Philip Broberg and Vincent Desharnais to step up in Ekholm’s absence. Both players have shown promise throughout the season but lack the postseason experience Ekholm brings. Brett Kulak is also expected to see increased minutes alongside Evan Bouchard, who will shoulder a heavier workload in both five-on-five and special teams situations.
Team captain Connor McDavid expressed confidence in the group, stating, “It’s tough losing a guy like Mattias, but we’ve been through adversity before. We have depth, and it’s time for others to step up.”
With high expectations entering the playoffs and a legitimate shot at the Stanley Cup, the Oilers will need to overcome this early challenge. While Ekholm’s absence is a setback, Edmonton’s success will now hinge on how well its defensive core adapts under pressure.
