The Edmonton Oilers are in the middle of an offseason filled with questions, possibilities, and tough decisions. After coming agonizingly close to hockey’s ultimate prize, every move they make this summer will be analyzed through the lens of “Can this help get us over the top?” One name quietly gaining momentum among fans and insiders alike is former top prospect Vasily Podkolzin.
The conversation picked up recently when NHL analyst Sean Pangeros, known by his handle @seanpangs, made waves with his blunt assessment: “Podkolzin is built like a tank, he’s like a dog on the bone on the forecheck.” That imagery alone has Oilers fans salivating at the thought of the rugged Russian winger wearing orange and blue again.
But the question remains: Should the Edmonton Oilers seriously consider bringing back Vasily Podkolzin? Let’s dive into what makes him appealing, his current trajectory, and whether he truly fits the Oilers’ Stanley Cup ambitions.
Podkolzin’s Profile: More Than Just Size
When the Vancouver Canucks drafted Podkolzin 10th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, they believed they were getting the complete package—a power forward with skill, speed, grit, and an unwavering motor. At 6-foot-1 and pushing 200 pounds, Podkolzin is indeed “built like a tank.” But what sets him apart isn’t just his physical stature—it’s how he uses it.
From his early days in Russia’s KHL to his initial NHL seasons with Vancouver, Podkolzin’s defining characteristic has been his relentless pursuit of the puck. His forechecking is textbook, applying constant pressure, disrupting breakouts, and forcing turnovers. That “dog on the bone” mentality is exactly what coaches covet, especially come playoff time when space is scarce, and every battle along the boards matters.
Despite showing flashes in Vancouver, consistency and opportunity were elusive. The Canucks’ forward depth often pushed him down the lineup, and organizational changes added to the uncertainty surrounding his role.
Why the Oilers Should Care
For the Oilers, playoff hockey has exposed both their strengths and weaknesses. The offensive brilliance of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl is undeniable, but Edmonton’s depth—particularly among gritty, defensively responsible forwards—remains a work in progress.
Their 2025 Stanley Cup run showcased a team capable of dictating play but occasionally overwhelmed by relentless forechecking units from opponents. Edmonton has skill; what they need is a player like Podkolzin to complement their stars, win board battles, extend offensive zone time, and wear down opposing defenses.
Moreover, Podkolzin’s age—just 23—means his best hockey may still be ahead. With proper development, coaching, and a defined role, he could blossom into a top-six power forward or, at worst, an elite bottom-six contributor with playoff value.
The Familiarity Factor
It’s easy to forget that Podkolzin has a history with Edmonton, albeit indirectly. While he never played for the Oilers, his style fits the identity GM Ken Holland has tried to cultivate: physicality, responsibility, and playoff poise.
Several Oilers players have praised opponents like Podkolzin for the exact qualities he brings to the table. Zach Hyman, for example, made his mark with a similar brand of in-your-face, puck-hunting hockey before becoming a fan favorite in Edmonton. Adding another player cut from that cloth strengthens the team’s competitive DNA.
The Cost Question
Of course, bringing back Podkolzin isn’t as simple as snapping fingers. The Canucks control his rights, and prying him loose would require negotiation, likely involving assets Edmonton values.
Given Vancouver’s needs on defense and their cap situation, a deal is conceivable but complex. The Oilers would need to weigh the cost against other priorities, like shoring up their blue line, re-signing key free agents, or pursuing veteran goaltending help.
But if Podkolzin is deemed expendable by Vancouver—whether due to internal logjams, contract disputes, or a philosophical shift—Edmonton should pounce.
Is Podkolzin Worth the Gamble?
Every trade comes with risk, but Podkolzin presents more of an opportunity than a gamble. His work ethic, physical tools, and age profile align with what playoff contenders seek in complementary players.
Critics might argue his offensive production hasn’t matched expectations for a top-10 pick. His NHL totals—modest points and fluctuating ice time—reflect both growing pains and inconsistent deployment.
But the Oilers don’t need Podkolzin to be a point-per-game star. They need him to do what he does best: hunt pucks, finish checks, win possession battles, and chip in timely offense. His forechecking alone could tilt momentum in critical playoff moments.
Podkolzin’s Playoff Mentality
Perhaps the biggest selling point for Oilers fans is Podkolzin’s playoff pedigree. Even during his KHL days with SKA St. Petersburg, he gained a reputation as a big-game performer. His willingness to engage physically, absorb punishment, and make life miserable for opposing defensemen translates directly to the NHL’s second season.
The Oilers’ recent playoff experiences underline the value of having multiple forwards who embrace the grind. Imagine Podkolzin flanking McDavid or Draisaitl during key shifts, applying pressure, creating turnovers, and freeing up space for the superstars to operate.
Alternatively, slotting him into a shutdown third line with players like Ryan McLeod or Warren Foegele could give Edmonton a relentless checking unit capable of neutralizing top opponents.
Locker Room Dynamics
Character matters, especially on contending teams. Reports from Vancouver and his KHL days suggest Podkolzin is coachable, team-oriented, and highly competitive. His commitment to improving his English, adjusting to North America, and embracing structure indicates maturity beyond his years.
Veteran leaders like McDavid and Draisaitl value work ethic, accountability, and team-first attitudes. Podkolzin seems to check those boxes, making his integration into the Oilers’ locker room a realistic scenario.
Fan Perspective: The “Tank” Edmonton Needs?
Oilers fans know the frustration of watching promising seasons unravel due to a lack of depth or physicality. Podkolzin’s skill set addresses both concerns. His size and strength make him a natural fit for rugged, playoff-style hockey. His relentless puck pursuit can generate turnovers and spark offense.
In essence, bringing Podkolzin to Edmonton could mirror past moves like acquiring Evander Kane—another physical forward who thrived in Alberta after questions elsewhere.
Should the Oilers Bring Back Podkolzin?
Given Edmonton’s current trajectory and window of opportunity, every roster addition must serve a singular purpose: winning a Stanley Cup. Podkolzin isn’t a flashy solution, but he represents a smart, strategic addition—a player whose game elevates under playoff pressure.
Sean Pangeros’ assessment captures it perfectly: “Built like a tank, dog on the bone on the forecheck.” Those words resonate in Edmonton, where playoff scars remind fans of the need for toughness, depth, and relentless work ethic.
If the price is right, bringing Podkolzin to Oil Country makes sense. He embodies the attributes successful playoff teams thrive on, and at just 23, his best days may lie ahead. For the Oilers, who crave that final piece to push them over the hump, Vasily Podkolzin could very well be the answer.
Time will tell if management agrees, but one thing is clear: The conversation about Podkolzin isn’t going away—and Oilers fans have every reason to pay attention.
