Mattias Ekholm Faces An Emotional Return To Nashville, while Tyson Barrie has to face his old team

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Joshua Deeds
October 16, 2023 (10:19 PM)

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Tyson Barrie, Reid Schafer, a 2023 1st round draft pick, and a 2023 4th-round draft pick were traded to acquire Mattias Ekholm from the Nashville Predators.

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.

"It's going to be special. (Nashville) has been a big part of my life."

Mattias Ekholm talks about making his return to Music City as the #Oilers visit the Predators tomorrow.

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.