As the NHL free agency period opened on July 1, several former Edmonton Oilers players found new homes, marking a significant shift in the league's landscape. The moves come as teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season, with some Oilers alumni landing lucrative contracts elsewhere.
Key Departures and Signings
Among the notable former Oilers on the move is forward Kailer Yamamoto, who signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings. Yamamoto, 27, recorded 15 goals and 22 assists last season with Edmonton. Another ex-Oiler, defenseman Evan Bouchard, inked a four-year, $22 million deal with the Vancouver Canucks. Bouchard, 25, posted 12 goals and 38 assists in the 2025-26 campaign.
Goaltender Mikko Koskinen, who previously played for the Oilers from 2018 to 2022, signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Florida Panthers. Koskinen, 36, spent last season with the KHL's SKA Saint Petersburg, where he had a 2.12 goals-against average and .918 save percentage.
Impact on Oilers and League
The departures leave the Oilers with significant cap space, which general manager Ken Holland said will be used to address team needs. “We wish all these players well, but we have a plan to improve our club,” Holland said in a statement. “We’re focused on building a championship contender.”
According to CapFriendly, the Oilers now have approximately $12.5 million in cap room, which could be used to re-sign restricted free agents or pursue top-tier talent in the remaining free agent market.
The flurry of moves underscores the competitive nature of NHL free agency, with teams eager to upgrade their lineups. “It’s a busy time of year,” said agent Pat Brisson, who represented several of the former Oilers. “Players are looking for the best fit, and teams are looking to improve. That’s the nature of the business.”
Other Former Oilers Finding New Teams
Forward Zack Kassian, who spent parts of six seasons with Edmonton, signed a two-year, $3.2 million deal with the Arizona Coyotes. Kassian, 34, had 8 goals and 12 assists last season. Defenseman Kris Russell, 38, agreed to a one-year, $1.1 million contract with the Ottawa Senators after playing 48 games for the Oilers in 2025-26.
The moves highlight the ongoing roster turnover in the NHL as teams jockey for position ahead of the 2026-27 season. With training camps set to open in September, the free agency period remains a critical time for roster construction.
