The Edmonton Oilers face a difficult decision regarding veteran forward Adam Henrique. Acquired in a trade with Anaheim on March 6, 2024, Henrique initially provided solid contributions, including 6-3-9 in 22 regular-season games and 4-3-7 in 17 playoff contests during the 2024 Stanley Cup run. His steady hand, faceoff prowess, and defensive awareness made him a valuable asset.
On July 1, 2024, Henrique signed a two-year, $3 million per year extension. However, his offensive production and footspeed began to decline. In his first full season with Edmonton, he posted 12-15-27 in 81 games, followed by 4-3-7 in 22 playoff games. While still effective, he was no longer at his peak.
2025-26: A Sharp Decline
Henrique reached NHL game 1,000 on October 21, 2025, and continued to display high hockey IQ and solid penalty-killing. But his scoring plummeted to just 3-12-15 in 65 games, including a 51-game goal drought. His skating slipped further, limiting his effectiveness.
In the 2026 playoffs, Henrique suffered a collision with a teammate in Game 1, playing only 2:56 before his postseason ended. The Oilers missed his presence as they were eliminated in six games.
Keep, Hold, or Fold?
Now 36 (turning 37 in February), Henrique's speed may restrict him to a fourth-line or 13th forward role, with penalty-killing and faceoff duties. He remains a career 50.6% faceoff winner (55% as an Oiler) and has 278-294-572 in 1,000 games, with seven 20-goal seasons. However, the Oilers likely need only one such veteran.
Could Henrique be useful at near the league minimum? Possibly. But the Oilers should regretfully fold. It's time to move on.
