The Edmonton Oilers are entering the offseason with a projected $16.74 million in cap space. With nine forwards, five defensemen, and one goalie on the active roster, the Oilers have some decisions to make. They have a few restricted free agents (RFAs) like Colton Dach and Spencer Stastney, who shouldn't break the bank, but the real challenge lies with their seven unrestricted free agents (UFAs).
General Manager Stan Bowman is faced with some tough calls, especially if the team aims to snag a top-six forward via trade. Let’s dive into which UFAs the Oilers should focus on re-signing, ranking them from least to most important.
Seventh: Adam Henrique
Adam Henrique was picked up at the 2024 Trade Deadline and initially served as the third-line center. Despite a two-year, $6 million extension, Henrique's performance has dipped.
At 36, he's slowed down, managing just two goals and 13 points this season. With younger options like Josh Samanski ready to step in, it might be time for the Oilers to let Henrique explore free agency.
Sixth: Max Jones
Max Jones has filled in due to injuries, but re-signing him shouldn’t be a top priority. While he's a hardworking and physical presence, the emergence of Connor Clattenburg, who plays a similar style and is younger, could make Jones expendable. Clattenburg’s potential to fill that role suggests the Oilers may opt for youth over experience.
Fifth: Curtis Lazar
Curtis Lazar has been a reliable fourth-line center, playing 38 games before an injury. With three goals and five points, he's been a solid depth piece. However, with Samanski likely taking over the fourth-line center role, Lazar could return as a 13th forward for insurance, but it’s not a necessity.
Fourth: Kasperi Kapanen
Kasperi Kapanen has been a valuable addition since being claimed off waivers, offering speed and defensive reliability. Despite injuries limiting him to 32 games, he has produced seven goals and 15 points. However, with Isaac Howard waiting in the wings on an entry-level contract, Kapanen might find himself the odd man out if his contract demands are too high.
Third: Jack Roslovic
Jack Roslovic has had a standout season with 19 goals and 31 points in 61 games. However, he might have priced himself out of Edmonton.
After signing a one-year, $1.5 million deal to boost his value, Roslovic is likely seeking a more lucrative contract. The Oilers, needing to address other areas, might let him walk.
Second: Jason Dickinson
Jason Dickinson has been a solid third-line center since his trade deadline acquisition. Known for his defensive prowess and penalty-killing ability, Dickinson fills a crucial role the Oilers have lacked. At 30, he still has plenty to offer, making him a strong candidate for re-signing at the right price.
First: Connor Murphy
Connor Murphy should be the Oilers' top priority. As a defensive defenseman, he excels in breaking up plays and blocking shots, with 30 blocked shots in just 11 games since joining Edmonton. At 33, Murphy is a legitimate top-four defenseman, and losing him would create a significant gap in the roster.
The Oilers face a critical offseason, and their decisions on these UFAs will shape their future. Keep following for all your NHL content throughout the season.