Stuart Skinner, a promising goaltender for the Edmonton Oilers, is expected to command a significant salary in his upcoming contract negotiations. Currently earning $2.6 million, his performance, particularly during the playoffs, suggests his market value could exceed $6 million per year, similar to Lukas Dostal’s recent contract with the Anaheim Ducks. The Oilers will need to weigh their options carefully, especially as Skinner approaches unrestricted free agency.

Meanwhile, the team is exploring the possibility of adding depth players, such as gritty wingers Brett Leason and Klim Kostin, and a left-handed defenseman like Jon Merrill, as they prepare for the season ahead. The financial implications of these decisions will be critical as the Oilers aim to maintain competitiveness while managing the salary cap.

The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move in the NHL by acquiring defenseman K’Andre Miller from the New York Rangers, a trade that follows speculation of an offer sheet on either Miller or Evan Bouchard. After the Rangers secured Vladislav Gavrikov with a hefty contract, they decided to part ways with Miller, who signed an eight-year contract worth $60 million with the Hurricanes. This acquisition comes as the Hurricanes look to strengthen their defense and capitalize on their ample cap space and draft capital. The Rangers, in return, received a conditional first and second-round pick along with defenseman Scott Morrow, marking a strategic play from both sides to enhance their rosters heading into a new season.

The timing of this trade is crucial, especially given the competitive nature of the Metropolitan Division. The Hurricanes, with their depth in draft assets, may have deterred Edmonton Oilers from extending an offer sheet to Bouchard, forcing them to sign him preemptively. Miller’s addition not only addresses Carolina’s defensive needs but also positions them strongly against division rivals. This trade exemplifies a trend where teams must be strategic about their roster moves, especially when they possess flexible cap space that can be used to lure players away from rival teams.

The Edmonton Oilers faced significant changes in their roster as forwards Corey Perry and Connor Brown departed in free agency. Perry, now with the L.A. Kings, signed a one-year deal worth $2 million, with potential bonuses. Brown inked a four-year, $12 million contract with the New Jersey Devils. Both players were instrumental in the Oilers' playoff run last season, contributing key points in their journey to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Florida Panthers.

Additionally, Edmonton traded Viktor Arvidsson to the Boston Bruins for a future draft pick, creating cap space to secure a new deal for defenseman Evan Bouchard, who signed for four years at $42 million. Bouchard's impressive performance, showcasing his offensive capabilities with a significant points total, sets high expectations for the upcoming season as the team aims to reclaim its place in the postseason.

The Edmonton Oilers have successfully re-signed Evan Bouchard to a four-year contract valued at $42 million, securing one of their top defensemen ahead of the free agency period. This deal averages $10.5 million annually and reflects Bouchard's significant contributions during his tenure, including two consecutive Western Conference titles. Last season, he notched 14 goals and 67 points over 82 games, while also tallying 23 points in the playoffs, despite facing challenges in the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers.

At just 25 years old, Bouchard has emerged as a versatile defenseman who plays on both the power play and penalty kill. His average ice time last season reached a career-high of 23 minutes and 27 seconds, showcasing his importance to the Oilers’ defensive unit. As a former first-round pick from 2018, Bouchard's development has positioned him as a crucial asset for Edmonton as they aim for continued success in the NHL.