Brandon Saad signs with Pacific Division rival
Photo credit: the hockey writers
Breaking news in the NHL as Brandon Saad has officially signed with the Las Vegas Golden Knights.
Just a few days ago, it appeared that the Edmonton Oilers were essentially a lock to sign the former Stanley Cup winning forward, but things have taken an unexpected twist.
Heavy Hockey Network, a highly reputable hockey resource reported that Brandon Saad was set to meet with the Oilers front office, but nothing came to fruition.
Now, the veteran forward agreed to a one-year deal worth $1.5 million with the Vegas Golden Knights for the remainder of the season.
The 32-year-old and Blues agreed to mutually terminate the remainder of his contract, making him a free agent and able to sign with any team in the NHL.
The decision led to him forgoing roughly $5.4 million to become a free agent rather than report to the minors after being placed on waivers.
Saad's struggles this season have been noted as he's been held without a goal in 40 of his 43 games this season and has a total of 16 points.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, Last season Saad scored 26 goals, and he's a two-time Cup champion over his career, so there's plenty of reason to believe he could turn around his game with the Vegas Golden Knights.
The Vegas Golden Knights also may have more room to give Saad an opportunity in their top six than the Oilers. Ice time and chance to win were probably the most important factors for Saad.
Even though the Oilers are in the market for a forward like Saad, perhaps it's best they pursue another avenue in trade for that need.
Even though the Oilers are in the market for a forward like Saad, perhaps it's best they pursue another avenue in trade for that need.
Personally, I think it's for the best. The Edmonton Oilers are currently the 2nd oldest team in the league, and adding a player in the twilight of his career might not be optimal for the Oilers post season efforts.
Saad has struggled to put up numbers offensively this season, and GM Stan Bowman is far better off utilizing his accrued cap space on a top-4 defender come trade deadline.
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