Three veterans from the Edmonton Oilers are likely to be on their way out
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The Edmonton Oilers have assembled an impressive forward group, but roster changes are likely to happen this offseason.
With Connor Brown, Jeff Skinner and Corey Perry on expiring contracts, the Edmonton Oilers may have to adjust its lineup since salary cap constraints or retirement decisions come into play.
According to Allan Mitchell (The Athletic), these three players are the most likely to leave Edmonton:
1. Connor Brown: The 31-year-old winger has found his game after a slow start and could earn a raise on his current $1M salary, but the Oilers may not be able to afford him if he asks for a bigger deal in free agency.
2. Jeff Skinner: After a rocky start in Edmonton, Skinner has picked up his play but may still look for a fresh start elsewhere and his future with the team appears doubtful.
2. Corey Perry: The 39-year-old veteran has remained productive by scoring 20 points in 54 games.
"The players who may be too expensive this summer include Brown, Klingberg The toughest call is probably Perry, who is older and slow but makes so many smart plays in the offensive zone
Jeff Skinner was an early disappointment who has been coming on in recent weeks. His return for another season looks like a long shot"
- Allan Mitchell
Jeff Skinner was an early disappointment who has been coming on in recent weeks. His return for another season looks like a long shot"
- Allan Mitchell
However, with declining speed and a potential Cup win, retirement could be on the table for him.
The NHL salary cap is rising which could help Edmonton retain some key players, but Brown's value may exceed what the team can afford, while Skinner could seek another opportunity.
Corey Perry's future depends on how deep the Oilers go in the playoffs and whether he decides to play another season.
This makes the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs even more important for the Oilers because having an aging veteran core, this could be their best chance to win with their current group before significant changes take place in the offseason.
