Edmonton Oilers’ Trend of Rewarding Strong Playoff Performances with Long-Term Contracts
The Edmonton Oilers have a history of recognizing and rewarding players who deliver standout performances during the playoffs. This trend has often led to multi-year contract extensions, especially for players who prove their value in high-pressure situations. One such player currently under the spotlight is defenceman Jake Walman, whose impressive playoff run last season could result in a long-term deal.
Walman recorded 10 points (2 goals, 8 assists) in 22 games during the playoffs, while leading the league in blocked shots with 66. His performance has caught the attention of the Oilers, and it’s speculated that he could be heading towards a six-year contract with a $6.278 million cap hit. This move would be well-deserved given his contributions and could mark a significant step forward for the team.
Looking back at previous instances where strong playoff performances translated into long-term contracts, several Oilers players stand out:
Fernando Pisani – 4-Year, $10 Million Contract Following the 2006 Playoffs
Fernando Pisani, drafted in the eighth round of the 1996 NHL Draft, made a name for himself during the 2006 playoffs. He scored 14 goals and four assists in 24 games, including a memorable shorthanded overtime goal in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Carolina Hurricanes. His efforts earned him a four-year, $10 million contract, though health issues later impacted his career.
Dwayne Roloson – 3-Year, $11 Million Contract Following the 2006 Playoffs
Dwayne Roloson, acquired by the Oilers in 2006, had a remarkable playoff run, posting a .927 save percentage and a 12-5 record. Despite suffering a serious knee injury in the Stanley Cup Final, his performance was enough to secure a three-year, $11 million contract.
Ales Hemsky – 6-Year, $24 Million Contract Extension Following the 2006 Playoffs
Ales Hemsky, a 2001 draft pick, had a breakout season in 2005-06, scoring 77 points in the regular season. His playoff performance, which included a game-winning goal against the Detroit Red Wings, led the Oilers to sign him to a six-year, $24 million contract extension.
Kris Russell – 4-Year, $16 Million Contract Following the 2017 Playoffs
Kris Russell, signed on a one-year deal in 2016, played a key role in the Oilers’ 2017 playoff run. His defensive play and leadership earned him a four-year, $16 million contract, marking a significant shift in his career.
Brett Kulak – 4-Year, $11 Million Contract Following the 2022 Playoffs
Brett Kulak, acquired from the Montreal Canadiens, had a solid playoff run in 2022, contributing five assists and playing a key role in the team’s third pair. His performance led to a four-year, $11 million contract, solidifying his place on the Oilers’ defense.
Evander Kane – 4-Year, $20.5 Million Contract Following the 2022 Playoffs
Evander Kane, signed as a free agent in 2022, had a stellar playoff run, scoring 13 goals in 15 games. His physical play and leadership earned him a four-year, $20.5 million contract, though he was eventually traded to the Vancouver Canucks.
Mattias Janmark – 3-Year, $4.35 Million Contract Following the 2024 Playoffs
Mattias Janmark, initially signed on a one-year deal, had a strong playoff run in 2024, contributing eight points in 25 games. His performance helped the Oilers achieve an incredible penalty kill rate, leading to a three-year, $4.35 million contract.
These examples highlight the Oilers’ tendency to reward players who shine during the playoffs. While not all deals have been perfect, they reflect the team’s commitment to building around talent that can perform when it matters most. As the Oilers continue to evaluate their roster, the question remains: which of these signings stands out as the most impactful?