Vasily Podkolzin Bio
Vasily Alexandrovich Podkolzin is a Russian professional ice hockey winger for the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected tenth overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2019 NHL entry draft and made his NHL debut with them in 2021. Before joining Vancouver, Podkolzin played for SKA Saint Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League. Internationally, he has represented the Russian national junior team at several tournaments.
Early Life and Background
Vasily Podkolzin was born on June 24, 2001, in Moscow, Russia. He grew up in the Maryino District of the city and has one younger brother, Mikhail, who was born in 2011 and also plays hockey. Podkolzin’s father, Alexander, was an entrepreneur, while his mother teaches piano. He first skated at the age of four and began playing hockey shortly after that. His grandfather played for Khimik Voskresensk, and his father continues to play in an amateur league. Podkolzin’s early exposure to hockey was significant, as he joined the Belye Medvedi (White Bears) club when he was eight years old. The facilities were quite far from his home, requiring over an hour of travel via metro and bus to reach the rink.
Path to Hockey
Podkolzin played for the Belye Medvedi club until he was 12 years old when he moved to Vityaz Podolsk. This move was motivated by the lack of a professional affiliate for Belye Medvedi and a change in their leadership. He spent four years with Vityaz but did not get the opportunity to play for their club in the Junior Hockey League (MHL), the top junior league in Russia. In 2018, he decided to transfer to SKA Saint Petersburg, a powerhouse in Russian hockey. On November 12, 2018, Podkolzin made his Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) debut with SKA Saint Petersburg, becoming the first player born in the 21st century to play in the KHL. He split the 2018–19 season between three teams and leagues, playing three games with SKA, fourteen with SKA-Neva of the Supreme Hockey League (VHL), and twelve games with SKA-1946 of the MHL. Rated by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau as the second-best international skater, Podkolzin was a highly regarded prospect going into the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, where he was selected tenth overall by the Vancouver Canucks.
Vasily Podkolzin Career
Early Career (2018–2021)
After being drafted by the Vancouver Canucks, Podkolzin remained in Russia due to a contract with SKA for two more seasons. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Canucks on May 30, 2021. He scored his first NHL goal against the Philadelphia Flyers’ Carter Hart on October 15, 2021, in his second NHL game. During the 2023–24 season, while beginning the year with the Abbotsford Canucks, the AHL affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks, Podkolzin was taken off the ice on a stretcher during a game against the Colorado Eagles due to a collision. He made 44 appearances with Abbotsford, registering 28 points, and was recalled to Vancouver multiple times, contributing 2 assists in 19 games.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Podkolzin’s breakthrough in the NHL came during the 2021 season when he made his debut with the Vancouver Canucks. His performance quickly established him as a promising player in the league. He was known for his strong offensive skills and ability to contribute to the team’s success. In April 2024, as a pending restricted free agent, Podkolzin was re-signed by the Canucks to a two-year, $2 million contract. However, on August 18, 2024, he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
Notable Works and Milestones
Vasily Podkolzin’s signature work includes his impressive performances in both the NHL and KHL. He has been recognized for his contributions to the teams he has played for and continues to develop as a player in the league.
Vasily Podkolzin Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Vasily Podkolzin has been recognized for his achievements and contributions to ice hockey, although specific nominations are not detailed in the available information.
Vasily Podkolzin Awards Won
While specific awards won by Vasily Podkolzin are not detailed, his notable performances in international play, including leading Russia to a bronze medal in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, highlight his impact on the sport.
Vasily Podkolzin Family
Vasily Podkolzin comes from a supportive family background. His father, Alexander Podkolzin, has played a significant role in his life, encouraging his pursuit of hockey. He has one younger brother, Mikhail, who also shares his passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Vasily Podkolzin’s personal life are limited, but it is known that he grew up in Moscow and has a close-knit family. His early experiences in hockey have shaped his career and dedication to the sport.
