Oilers a Team “That Makes Some Sense” for Saad, Says Insider

When Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer throws out an idea on his show, it’s often because he’s got it on good authority that the organization is considering what he’s talking about. In this case, Stauffer suggested that the recently waived Brandon Saad might be a fit for the Oilers and that he’d be interested in signing in Edmonton. Once his mutual contract termination is complete, he’d be allowed to do so.

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Stauffer said:

“Do you think that’s possible that he’s looked and targeted maybe two, three, four organizations where there might be a better fit?… You sit there and you get to pick your spot. Let’s say it’s a million bucks for the rest of the way, pro-rated, and drive some numbers. Maybe you get yourself another deal next summer.”

Saad is leaving $3.6 million in cash on the table next season, so he’ll want to sign for something closer than that in 2025-26. But for the rest of this season? It might be all about winning. Stauffer added, “And my guess is he’s going to target a team that’s cap strapped, that’s got a chance to win. Who is his general manager in Chicago? Who would know him better than Stan?”

“I think logic dictates you could connect the dots and say, I bet you the Oilers would probably be a team that makes some sense,” he continued. Stauffer did admit that not everyone would love the idea of an older, slower, not terribly physical winger joining the team. However, he pointed to Saad’s goal-scoring.

Saad had 26 goals in 2023-24 and has multiple 20-plus goal seasons on his resume. He would provide the Oilers with some depth, it’s fair to ask if he’d produce the rest of this season.

Should the Oilers Worry About Production?

Considering how things have gone for Jeff Skinner, it might be smart not to just jump on the Saad train. Yes, he would be less expensive. Still, Skinner was a 30-goal guy who hasn’t been a regular in the lineup for Edmonton most of the season. For some reason, he’s not getting the looks.

Would Saad be another Skinner? Or, does he bring something else that head coach Kris Knoblauch might utilize? Maybe Saad is another Evander Kane? Even if he’s like Kasperi Kapanen or Corey Perry, those signings have worked out quite well. Edmonton signed John Klingberg too, but because he hasn’t debuted yet, the jury is still out.

It probably all depends on the price and the guarantee (if any) that Saad is looking for.

Next: Scribe Examines Bruins Dealing Brad Marchand to the Oilers