The Edmonton Oilers have successfully secured the signing of Connor Brown in free agency, utilizing a unique contract structure due to his ACL injury. Brown’s deal is reportedly a one-year contract worth $775,000 with the potential to earn up to $3.25 million in bonuses. Importantly, his cap hit for next season will only be $775,000.
The advantage for the Oilers lies in the fact that they can push the $3.25 million in performance bonuses to the following season, helping manage their salary cap effectively. This bonus-laden contract allows Brown to bet on himself while providing the Oilers with the services of a top-six right winger at a low average annual value (AAV) for one year.
Rumors of Brown potentially joining the Oilers and reuniting with his junior teammate, Connor McDavid, have circulated among reporters and analysts. The groundwork for this deal was laid last summer, as Bob McKenzie tweeted about it on July 13, 2022, and other media insiders have been reporting this was likely for a number of weeks.
Brown Is What the Oilers Need
Brown brings a relentless and tenacious playing style, showcasing a never-ending, no-quit attitude on both ends of the ice. He is versatile enough to play on either wing, though he appears to prefer the right side. Despite facing injuries throughout his career, he has displayed a knack for goal-scoring, surpassing the 20-goal mark twice. Additionally, his strong foot speed and penalty-killing abilities further enhance his value. In many ways, his playing style resembles that of Zach Hyman.
With the signing of Connor Brown, the Edmonton Oilers bolster their lineup with a skilled and determined forward, strengthening their offensive depth. The unique contract structure allows both parties to maximize their potential gains while managing the salary cap effectively.
It sounds like the Oilers have also signed Lane Pederson to a two-year one-way deal in Edmonton. $775,000 aav.
Next: Radko Gudas Signs 3-Year Deal with Anaheim Ducks: $4 Million AAV
