With Ekholm, the team had reached the Stanley Cup Finals and had been regular playoff contenders. He had contributed to the development of the team.
As a fourth-round pick in the 2009 NHL draft, he was selected by Nashville. During his time in Nashville from 2009 to 2023, he spent 14 years developing as a player and owes a great deal of gratitude to the city and the club.
Ekholm feels an emotional attachment to Nashville for more than just that reason, as two of his three children were born there as well.
It's unlikely he'll see many of the 2017 team that he fondly remembers. After spending so much time in Nashville, he remembers the everyday employees he built relationships with and will cherish the chance to get back in touch with them.
Last season, Ekholm was traded for the first time, so this will be a new emotional experience for him.
Furthermore, Tyson Barrie will be facing his old club, as he was an essential member of the club's blueline.
POLL | ||
17 OCTOBRE | 56 ANSWERS Mattias Ekholm Faces An Emotional Return To Nashville, while Tyson Barrie has to face his old team Do you think the Oilers will pull off a win against the Predators? | ||
Yes | 41 | 73.2 % |
No | 15 | 26.8 % |
List of polls |