The Edmonton Oilers have signed goaltender Frederik Andersen to a one-year contract worth $2.8 million, general manager Stan Bowman announced Wednesday. The move comes after the Oilers cleared salary cap space by trading defenseman Darnell Nurse, allowing them to address their goaltending situation.
Andersen brings experience and size
Andersen, 36, checks several important boxes for Edmonton. At six-foot-four and 229 pounds, he provides a big presence in the crease. He has played 552 career NHL games over 13 seasons, with a record of 324-149-58, a 2.59 goals-against average, and a .913 save percentage. He has been a starter for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes, and has deep playoff experience.
Most notably, Andersen helped lead the Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup in 2026, going 13-2 with a 1.89 goals-against average and three shutouts before giving way to Brandon Bussi for the final four games of the championship series.
Oilers goaltending depth
The signing gives the Oilers a veteran option to stabilize their crease. Tristan Jarry, who struggled after joining Edmonton mid-season, remains under contract at $5.3 million. The Oilers also acquired young goaltender Devon Levi from the Buffalo Sabres, who carries a $812,000 cap hit. Combined, Edmonton is spending just under $9 million on their goaltending trio.
Andersen's arrival allows the Oilers to avoid relying solely on Jarry's rebound or Levi's inexperience. New head coach Mike Babcock has emphasized a defense-first system, which could further support the goaltending unit.
Cap implications
The Nurse trade freed up significant salary cap space, enabling Bowman to pursue Andersen. The one-year deal minimizes long-term risk while providing a proven option. The Oilers hope Andersen's playoff pedigree and steady play will solve their long-running goaltending issues.
Andersen's career numbers include a 2.59 goals-against average and .913 save percentage. In the 2026 playoffs, he posted a 1.89 GAA and .938 save percentage, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
