Oilers Interested in Bringing Sam Gagner Back Into the Fold

Amidst speculation that the Edmonton Oilers might be looking for bargains on the free agent market should they add any more players prior to the start of the 2022-23 NHL season, one report has the team talking with a former player about a potential return.

Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal is reporting that Oilers GM Ken Holland has had conversations with 33-year-old veteran forward Sam Gagner. Gagner was drafted by Edmonton and once thought to be part of their future before he was moved and became an NHL journeyman. He’s been up and down from the minors to the pros, but repeatedly battled his way onto NHL rosters, sometimes having a fairly productive season.

Last season he scored 13 goals and 18 assists in 81 games for the Detroit Red Wings. They were not a good team and took strides this offseason to improve their roster. Gagner doesn’t appear to be a part of their plans and is looking to catch on somewhere. Leavins notes that the Oilers and Gagner’s camp have spoke, but nothing is definitive as he also reports the Oilers have been approached by a number of agents who are looking for players for their unsigned clients. The deals are starting to present themselves and the Oilers will have options even though they have very little money to spend.

Leavins wonders if the fit is there between Gagner and Edmonton as the Oilers are lacking at right wing and one has to think Gagner would be open to signing a two-way deal where he could see himself sent down to Bakersfield if he isn’t holding a regular roster spot with the big club.

Gagner has a history in Edmonton, his wife is from the area and he would fit easily into the locker room, providing experience and leadership, something Holland has often added to his teams as the offseason comes to a close.

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