Reports: Edmonton Oilers Gets Locked In a Massive Trade Deal with Vancouver Canucks Over Top Talent
On Sunday, the Edmonton Oilers executed an intriguing trade to acquire young forward Vasili Podkolzin from the Vancouver Canucks. Reports this evening confirm that the Oilers are enhancing their forward lineup by bringing in the former first-round selection. In return, the Canucks will be receiving a fourth-round pick in 2025.
The #oilers have acquired Vasily Podkolzin from the #canucks for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick.
Edmonton making moves with decisions still pending on the offer sheets signed by Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) August 18, 2024
During his tenure with the Vancouver Canucks, Vasily Podkolzin struggled to meet expectations. Selected 10th overall in 2019 from Russia, he was anticipated to become a key player for the team. However, four years post-draft, he remained in the AHL, registering 28 points in 44 games. While he did play 137 NHL games during that span, he managed to accumulate only 35 points, failing to stand out.
Joining the Edmonton Oilers, Podkolzin is expected to add energy and grit, alongside solid skating, to the bottom-six forwards. Although he has displayed moments of skill throughout his career, he hasn’t been consistent enough to justify his top-10 selection. This trade raises questions about the futures of other Oilers players, such as Dylan Holloway.
The recent trade marks a significant shift for both teams and may signal larger changes ahead. The Oilers are also evaluating whether to match offer sheets for Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, signed by the St. Louis Blues.
We have tendered offer sheets to Edmonton's Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway. #stlblues
DETAILS ➡️ https://t.co/HgShyE72bU https://t.co/HgShyE72bU
— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) August 13, 2024
The addition of Vasily Podkolzin may make Dylan Holloway more expendable, introducing uncertainty into the Oilers’ strategy. Until now, many believed the team would match Holloway’s contract and allow Philip Broberg to depart, but this trade could significantly alter that approach.
Both Holloway and Podkolzin have shown promise as young players, typically filling lower-line roles in the NHL. Given that the Edmonton Oilers already have a strong top-six lineup, there may not be space for both on the roster. With Holloway currently facing an offer sheet from the St. Louis Blues, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Oilers chose to let him go.
We will keep you updated as more information about this trade and the surrounding situation emerges.
