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Mattias Ekholm shares heartfelt emotional message with Oilers fans following Stanley Cup Final loss
In a post on his Instagram account on Thursday, Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm sent an emotional message to fans addressing the team's loss in the Stanley Cup final. Ekholm responded with thankfulness for the support he and his family felt over the first full season in Edmonton.
"Edmonton. Our first full season has now come to an end and we are beyond grateful for the way this city has welcomed us," Ekholm wrote. "Although we wish we could have written another end to this amazing season, we will always remember how a hockey team and a city came together and shared one big dream. Keep on believing, see you in the fall."
Ekholm’s message spoke volumes to the Edmonton Oilers fans, as their season was full of highs and heartbreaks. During the regular season, the Edmonton Oilers fought back and clinched a place in the playoffs.
They ousted the Los Angeles Kings in the first round, the Vancouver Canucks in the second round, and the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final. This took them to the Stanley Cup finals, where they played against the Florida Panthers, eventually forcing a Game 7, but lost 2-1.
One of the most outstanding performers throughout the season was Ekholm, who contributed 11 goals and 34 assists, scoring a total of 45 points, and a plus-minus statistic of +44, ranking third in the league.
Edmonton Oilers name Keith Gretzky their assistant GM
Keith Gretzky was named assistant general manager of the Edmonton Oilers, succeeding Bill Scott, who transitioned to a new role. Gretzky, the younger brother of franchise legend Wayne Gretzky, said
"I talked to Wayne about it as soon as it happened. It's one of those things, the team is on the rise, and to be a part of that is going to be real special, and with it being the Oilers, it's extra special."
Keith previously worked with the Boston Bruins as director of amateur scouting and also spent time with the Arizona Coyotes. Gretzky appreciated Bruins' president Cam Neely and GM Don Sweeney for allowing him to pursue this "dream job."
Alongside his appointment, Kelly Buchberger was named vice president of player development, and Duane Sutter was promoted to vice president of player personnel. Gretzky plans to oversee scouting and familiarize himself with the team’s prospects.
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