Edmonton Oilers Close to Extension With Zack Kassian

One of Edmonton’s pending free agents, (currently in the final year of a three-year extension with a cap hit of $1.95 million per season), it appears the Oilers are getting closer to signing Zack Kassian to a contract extension. According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, talks have intensified between Edmonton and Kassian’s reps.

Friedman specifically said, Kassian is happy in Edmonton and the Oilers are pleased with what he’s brought to the table. Both sides want to work something out.

Zack Kassian is enjoying a career year on the @EdmontonOilers' top line.

Before he becomes a UFA in the summer, Kassian is expected to meet with Edmonton to talk extension.https://t.co/yubnZBm7PZ

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 15, 2019

Great News for Oilers

Kassian has really come on this season with 22 points in 32 games and he’s on pace to destroy previous career highs. He’s fit right in on the top line with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl as that third on a powerhouse duo. Bringing speed, scoring touch and grit to that line, he’s a nice complimentary piece, proving he’s more than a bottom-six forward.

The Oilers could sorely use the consistent scoring Kassian has brought so far this season. That said, is this the kind of player Kassian is? Perhaps the Oilers are jumping the gun here.

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Oilers Should Be Careful Not to Overpay

There is danger here in giving a contract to Kassian based upon this year’s totals. It’s difficult to know if he can reproduce what he’s given the team in the early going and if an extension is right around the corner, even that he can keep it up all season long.

That said, if he’s willing to sign a team-friendly deal to secure his long-term future with an organization he wants to play for, he might not be looking to hit a home run based on the first 30 games.

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