The Edmonton Oilers' playoff fate hangs in the balance, with a potential early exit looming. With key players like Leon Draisaitl sidelined and Connor McDavid's team facing challenges, the off-season reshuffling is inevitable. Among the players set to become unrestricted free agents, several stand out for their contributions and potential value to the team. Here's an in-depth look at the Oilers' potential free-agent signings, with a focus on those who could be worth re-signing.
Jack Roslovic
Roslovic's journey with the Oilers began with a one-year, $1.5 million contract, and he's made the most of it. His adaptability and middle-six scoring prowess make him a valuable asset. Despite some injury setbacks, Roslovic's point-per-game pace is impressive, and the Oilers should consider a longer-term commitment. A four-year extension, as rumored by Bob Stauffer, could be a strategic move to secure his services.
Jason Dickinson
Dickinson's arrival from the Chicago Blackhawks was intended to bolster the Oilers' penalty kill and provide defensive stability. While he's a solid third-line center, his performance since joining the team has been underwhelming. The Oilers need to be cautious with their spending, especially after the Adam Henrique deal. Dickinson's value lies in his ability to chip in on the scoresheet, but a cheaper, more affordable contract would be ideal.
Adam Henrique
The Oilers' decision to trade a first-round pick for Henrique was met with mixed results. His production dropped significantly after the trade, and the two-year, $3 million deal with a no-move clause has been a burden. Henrique's decline in 2025-26 further emphasizes the need for a younger, more cost-effective solution. His solid defensive play and penalty-killing skills are not enough to justify the cap hit.
Kasperi Kapanen
Kapanen's versatility and productivity make him an attractive free-agent target. His ability to play up and down the lineup, coupled with his playoff success, is a significant plus. Despite some injury setbacks, Kapanen's performance this season has been notable. The Oilers' interest in finding more players like him ahead of the deadline suggests a strong desire to retain his services.
Connor Murphy
Murphy's acquisition from the Blackhawks was intended to provide a shutdown role, but his performance has been underwhelming. His -5 rating and the team's struggles with expected goals and shot attempts indicate a need for improvement. Murphy's limited playoff experience and the team's current struggles make this a 'wait-and-see' situation. The Oilers should carefully evaluate his long-term potential.
Max Jones
Jones' versatility and willingness to play in the AHL make him a valuable asset. His ability to split time between the NHL and the AHL, coupled with his performance as a fourth-liner, is impressive. The Oilers should consider a league-minimum deal to retain his services, especially given his potential to contribute in a bottom-six role.
Curtis Lazar
Lazar's impact on the Oilers' success is undeniable. His defensively reliable play and faceoff prowess make him a valuable addition. While he may not be a team-carrying star, Lazar's ability to contribute in a supporting role is significant. The Oilers should explore the possibility of a league-minimum deal to keep him in the lineup.
Connor Ingram
Ingram's performance as a backup goaltender is commendable, and his numbers are comparable to those of Stuart Skinner before his trade. The Oilers' decision to trade for Tristan Jarry, however, has created a challenging situation. If they can find a way to free themselves from Jarry's contract, Ingram's return on a show-me deal could be beneficial. His ability to step up when needed is a valuable asset for any team.
In conclusion, the Oilers have several free agents who have contributed significantly to the team's success. While some may have underperformed, their potential value and adaptability make them worth re-signing. The Oilers' off-season strategy should focus on securing these players' services, ensuring a strong foundation for the future.
