The career of Sam Gagner has been long but underwhelming. The former Edmonton Oiler, drafted in 2007 as the sixth overall pick in the first round, was expected to become a key player in the Oilers' top 6 and a strong offensive force.
Unfortunately, throughout his entire career up to this point, he has never surpassed the twenty-goal mark and has only reached 50 points once between 2007 and 2023.
After spending seven seasons with the Oilers, Gagner had stints with the Arizona Coyotes, Flyers, Blue Jackets, Canucks, a second stint with the Oilers from 2018 to 2020, and time with the Detroit Red Wings and Winnipeg Jets. While playing for the Jets, he participated in only 48 games, scoring eight goals with six assists, totaling 14 points and maintaining a -4 rating.
If he succeeds, the 34-year-old center could provide the Oilers with increased depth at the center position, bolster their penalty kill, and bring valuable experience to guide younger players like Dylan Holloway. General Manager Ken Holland's pursuit of potential bargain players in the market aligns with his strategy of seeking cost-effective solutions that pose minimal risk to the team's salary cap, and could even serve as trade assets if needed.
Over his NHL tenure, he has participated in 1015 games, scoring 192 goals and providing 327 assists, resulting in 519 points. Gagner has accumulated 140 power play points and accrued 440 penalty minutes.
