Oilers most impactful summer moves
By Reece Reaville on October 7, 2024
When comparing the Oilers roster, which was two goals away from winning the Stanley Cup just months ago, to the team about to play its first game of the 24/25 season, you would be shocked at the changes. But change isn’t always a bad thing; big additions and signings were made to improve the team. Here is a look at some of the major moves made this summer to push the organization over the hump and take home the Stanley Cup.
Oilers trade 4th round pick for Vasily Podkolzin
The Oilers added the highly skilled Podkolzin for pennies on the dollar when the Canucks knew they weren’t going to be able to keep him. He was the 10th overall pick in 2019 but hasn’t been able to find his footing in the NHL. Look for the big Russian to break out after a change in scenery.
After being picked 9th overall by Buffalo in 2022, the 20-year-old St. Albert native dominated the junior levels but never was given an opportunity at the NHL level. After a lacklustre playoff run for Ryan McLeod, the Oilers traded him and another prospect for Savoie. Just recently, Savoie was sent down to the Oilers minor league team, but expect Savoie to make an impact as soon as he cracks the full-time roster, which could even be later on this season.
After being eliminated by the Oilers the last three seasons, Arvidsson decided to jump ship on July 1st and sign with the Oilers for two years at 3 million a year. With loads of playoff experience and great production throughout his 10 NHL seasons, you can expect those numbers to only rise when he suits up with either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl.
After making $9 million in the past season, Jeff Skinner had the remaining three years of his contract bought out. This meant he became a free agent after scoring over 40 goals just a year ago. Turning down multiple other offers, Skinner decided to sign in Edmonton for only $4 million. Skinner will undoubtedly outperform his contract and will most likely play on the top line with McDavid. Skinner has never played in a playoff game over his 1,000-game career, but expect him to be a key factor if this team wants to win the Stanley Cup.
The Oilers superstar did something the club has never seen with a player of his calibre, he committed to being an Oiler for life. Draisaitl’s deal came in at $112 million over eight years, which is an insane number but, oddly enough, completely worth it. The only player that competes with Draisaitl is McDavid, who is on the same team.
With so many changes, it would’ve been easy for the Oilers to take a step back this season, but management did not let that happen. After a short but extremely hectic off-season, the Oilers once again enter the new NHL season as favourites to win the Stanley Cup.