Why Vasily Podkolzin Is Thriving for the Oilers Early in 2026-27
Vasily Podkolzin has produced seven goals and nine points in seven games for Edmonton. He has fit well alongside Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, helping the top line control play at both ends. His defensive work and the coaching staff’s trust have also contributed to his strong start.
Podkolzin arrived in Edmonton via an August 2024 trade and has steadily developed since. Through seven games in 2026-27, he has seven goals and nine points while the Oilers have lost only once in regulation.
Skating with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, he helped that trio post a 71.9 expected goals percentage across 67.5 minutes in the first six games, with 1.6 expected goals against. He led Edmonton with 27 hits in six games, had two giveaways, and ranked top five in goals above expected (3) and on-ice goal differential (14). Coach Mike Babcock has trusted him on the top power play amid injuries to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman; he has three power-play goals and four power-play points.
Podkolzin’s early success could give Oilers fans a fresh storyline beyond the usual stars, potentially boosting local engagement and merchandise interest. It may also offer a model for how defensive forwards earn trust and larger roles, affecting young players and coaches who value two-way play. If sustained, his rise might shape how Edmonton approaches lineup decisions and salary planning, though seven games are a small sample.