Mattias Ekholm's Unlikely Hat Trick Creates NHL History for Edmonton Oilers
In a stunning display of offensive prowess from an unexpected source, veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm delivered a career-defining performance that will be remembered in NHL annals. The 35-year-old Swedish blueliner, who openly acknowledges his reputation isn't built on goal-scoring, recorded his first-ever NHL hat trick on Monday night, powering the Edmonton Oilers to a decisive 7-4 victory over the visiting Anaheim Ducks at Rogers Place.
A Historic Achievement for Edmonton's Defense Corps
Ekholm's three-goal masterpiece wasn't just a personal milestone—it created league history. With this performance coming just two days after teammate Evan Bouchard registered a hat trick against Washington, the Oilers became the first team in NHL history to feature defensemen scoring hat tricks in consecutive games. This remarkable defensive scoring surge has provided Edmonton with unprecedented offensive contributions from their blue line at a crucial juncture in the season.
The timing of Ekholm's breakthrough couldn't have been more surprising. Entering his 938th career game with just three goals through 53 contests this season, the veteran had endured a 20-game goal drought before his Monday night explosion. "I'm usually not known for my goal-scoring ability," Ekholm told reporters with characteristic humility. "I couldn't buy a goal for 20 games and then three in one."
Breaking Anaheim's Momentum and Personal Barriers
Ekholm's hat trick served dual purposes: it snapped Anaheim's impressive seven-game winning streak while marking a personal first for the defenseman. When asked if this represented his first career hat trick at any level, Ekholm paused thoughtfully before confirming it was indeed a debut achievement as far as he could recall.
The defenseman completed his historic night with an empty-net goal in the final seconds, a moment he described with practical insight: "That last face-off, we're up by two. If we were up by one, I'd probably just try to chip it out. But yeah, I tried to take a look at it at least, to see what happens. Fortunate enough to get it in there."
Team Contributions and Looking Ahead
Beyond Ekholm's standout performance, the Oilers received significant contributions throughout their lineup. Leon Draisaitl orchestrated the offense with four assists, while superstars Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman each added a goal and an assist to the scoresheet. This collective effort improved Edmonton's season record to 27-19-8 and marked their second consecutive victory at home.
When questioned about potential jealousy following Bouchard's hat trick performance just 48 hours earlier, Ekholm laughed off the suggestion with characteristic grace. "Yeah, yes, nothing I thought about before, but I guess that's how it turned out," he remarked. "So yeah, fun moment."
The Oilers now turn their attention to building on this momentum as they prepare to host the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, seeking their first three-game winning streak of the season. With their defensive corps demonstrating unexpected offensive firepower and key forwards contributing consistently, Edmonton appears poised for a strong push as the playoff picture continues to take shape.
