Vasily Podkolzin could reach another level offensively for the Edmonton Oilers next season, according to NHL analyst Mark Spector.
Podkolzin scored 19 goals and 37 points in 82 games last season. He also added three goals and six points in six playoff games.
Speaking on Sports 1440’s Tom Gazzola Podcast, Spector pointed to Podkolzin’s chemistry with Leon Draisaitl. He believes that combination could help the winger reach 20 goals.
“When you’re playing with Leon Draisaitl, and he’s gonna start the year there, they already have obviously good chemistry,” Spector said. “There’s the possibility, I think, even for more than 20 goals. He’s got a great shot, too.”
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Podkolzin’s shooting ability gives Draisaitl another option when opponents focus heavily on the Oilers center. The winger’s physical strength also allows him to compete for pucks and create space around the net.
Spector believes Podkolzin needs to improve his positioning to turn more chances into goals.
“I mean, if he can get away that shot a little bit more,” Spector said. “He needs to find, I think, holes on the ice. So certain areas with, you know, in the slot where he can get that, get that wrist shot away. Then I think he’s looking at 20 for sure.”
Oilers forward can ease pressure on Leon DraisaitlEdmonton, Alberta, CAN; The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal scored by forward Leon Draisaitl (29) at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)The Oilers need secondary scoring around Draisaitl and Connor McDavid to improve their team structure. Podkolzin’s growth could provide that support without requiring major changes to Edmonton’s top-six.
Spector also highlighted Podkolzin’s work away from the puck. “The other things that he offers that maybe go unrecognized, and those are, digging pucks out, supporting Draisaitl,” he said.
That role matters because Draisaitl often controls possessions for long stretches. “Leon will hold on and hold on for as long as he can,” Spector explained. So, Podkolzin can give Draisaitl another passing option when defenders collapse around him. His size also helps him protect the puck and absorb defensive pressure.
“Maybe he uses Podkolzin a little bit more as in a given goal scenario,” Spector said. “Because that takes some heat off of him. And Podkolzin’s a big enough, strong enough guy where he can fend off defenders as well.
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The Oilers signed Podkolzin to a three-year, $8.85 million extension after his breakout season. At a $2.95 million cap hit, his potential production could provide valuable secondary scoring.
Reaching 20 goals would mark a modest statistical jump. More importantly, Podkolzin’s development could make Edmonton’s second line harder to defend next season.
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