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Oilers reportedly signing two European players, one expected to make NHL roster
Photo credit: Postmedia
According to new reports from Oilers insider Bob Stauffer, the Edmonton Oilers are closing in on prospects with multiple European players.
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that the Oilers were finalizing a contract with German forward Joshua Samanski from the DEL, billed as the best scorer at his level.
Edmonton Oilers expected to sign multiple more free agents
In last night's intermission report, Stauffer revealed the Oilers have commitments from two European players, and have more they're interested in - as well as NCAA free agents.
The Oilers are infinite miles ahead of where they were before. They've gotten some commitments of a couple players. One that's going to be a good prospect for the AHL to start. Another one that's coming is probably going to be on the Oilers NHL team next year. Both forwards.
It would not surprise me if the Oilers added 3 or 4 forwards out of Europe. Maybe a player or two out of the NCAA.
- Bob Stauffer
It would not surprise me if the Oilers added 3 or 4 forwards out of Europe. Maybe a player or two out of the NCAA.
- Bob Stauffer
Stauffer's use of the word commitment is significant here, suggesting that the Oilers have deals in place with players even if they can't yet announce them.
The first European free agent Stauffer is referring to is likely Samanski, as the Oilers have yet to officially announce a contract with him.
The second player could possibly be Maxim Berezkin, an Oilers 5th round draft pick from 2020. Berezkin has gone on to play 228 games in the KHL at only 23 years old, and this season had a breakout season.
In 66 games, Berezkin scored 15 goals and 42 points while playing a power forward style. Given his skill set, experience, and physicality, Berezkin is expected to immediately join the Oilers next season. For now, Berezkin won't be posted for free agency until May 31.
It's also possible that Stauffer was referring to another player entirely, however it seems most likely the Oilers would be talking to a player while they still hold his NHL rights.
The Oilers are clearly exploring adding talent from much wider pools than they have in the past. If the Oilers can finalize contracts for a few international prospects, it would help replenish their depleted system and help extend their window of contention.
| POLL | ||
MARS 28 | 456 ANSWERS Oilers reportedly signing two European players, one expected to make NHL roster Do you think the Oilers will be better at signing international free agents? | ||
| Yes | 340 | 74.6 % |
| No | 116 | 25.4 % |
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