Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Podkolzin Returns After Family Loss, Eyes Stanley Cup

10/1/2025

50 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Podkolzin Returns Home

Vasily Podkolzin returns to Edmonton Tuesday after a family leave in Russia.
The return follows his father Alexander's death; he will skip Seattle Kraken's preseason but play Vancouver's game.
Podkolzin signed a three-year extension worth $2.95 million annually.
Last season: 24 points in 82 games and 10 in 22 playoff games; Oilers honor his father by pursuing the Stanley Cup.

Summary

Kaprizov Signs Record Deal

Kirill Kaprizov signed an eight-year, $136 million contract with the Minnesota Wild, setting an NHL salary record.
The deal could influence negotiations. McDavid’s path remains unique.
The Edmonton Oilers seek secondary scoring to support McDavid and Draisaitl. Trent Frederic and Andrew Mangiapane could contribute.
Matthew Savoie could impact the NHL after an AHL season, possibly with Draisaitl in 2025-26.

History

Historical Context

The NHL introduced a salary cap in 2005 after a lockout, fundamentally altering player contracts and team strategies. This cap, set at $83.5 million, paved the way for record deals like Kirill Kaprizov's $136 million contract with the Minnesota Wild. Teams like the Edmonton Oilers are now focused on building competitive rosters around stars like Connor McDavid, reflecting evolving financial dynamics in professional sports.

1 of 3

Podkolzin Returns Home

Vasily Podkolzin returns to Edmonton Tuesday after a family leave in Russia.
The return follows his father Alexander's death; he will skip Seattle Kraken's preseason but play Vancouver's game.
Podkolzin signed a three-year extension worth $2.95 million annually.
Last season: 24 points in 82 games and 10 in 22 playoff games; Oilers honor his father by pursuing the Stanley Cup.

1 / 3