Oilers defenceman Adam Larsson is no rookie.

Since being selected fourth overall in the 2011 NHL Draft, Larsson has played in 353 regular season NHL games and 18 more in the post-season.

Larsson was a steady and efficient presence on the Oilers blueline last season after being acquired in an off-season trade with the New Jersey Devils. But he's still only 24, and he's still learning.

Despite carrying himself as a veteran, Larsson says he leans on another Oilers blueliner for guidance: Kris Russell.

"I think Rusty meant a lot for us young guys last year," said Larsson.

"I think everything; from his work ethic, what he says on the bench, what he says in the locker room and how he carries himself. It's huge for us to have him here."

Edmonton signed Russell to a four-year extension on June 23. Russell had 13 points (1-12-13) in 68 games last season. He has more than 600 NHL games of experience.