Ekholm has a personal moment with Ken Holland after clinching Cup Final

In the Oilers most recent edition of their behind-the-scenes access, Ekholm and Holland met after their Game 6 victory over the Dallas Stars, and Ekholm thanked Holland for trading for him.

Since being acquired in a trade for Tyson Barrie last season at the deadline, Ekholm has provided an incredible presence for this Oilers team. He perfectly pairs with the offensive superstar Evan Bouchard, and has really helped bring the best out of the Oilers defence as a whole. In the Oilers quest for the Stanley Cup over the last two seasons, Ekholm has been one of the strongest players on the team.

Ekholm's put up a respectable 7 points in 18 playoff games this year, but his contribution to the team extends far beyond the scoresheet. Ekholm is a textbook two way defender, who has the ability to move the puck to the elite forwards, but also can play a physical stay at home defensive game.

Thankfully, Ekholm won't be going anywhere for next season too. He's signed to an extremely reasonable contract of $6.25M for the next two years, fitting in directly with the Oilers window to win. If the Oilers are going to win the Stanley Cup this year, Mattias Ekholm will be a massive factor in their success.