The Edmonton Oilers have been quiet this off-season, but according to team insider Bob Stauffer on Oilers Now, the organization is zeroing in on re-signing veteran checking centre Jason Dickinson. Dickinson, who turns 31 in a few weeks, is an unrestricted free agent.
Stauffer's Insights on Dickinson
Stauffer, known as the Master of Whispers in Edmonton, hinted at a serious organizational push to bring Dickinson back. "What's gonna happen with Jason Dickinson?" Stauffer asked. "He was injured badly in the playoffs. I have a feeling that I could foresee a scenario where he gets re-signed here in Oil country. I could see that coming to fruition."
On May 8, Stauffer speculated on the potential cost: "Dickinson got paid well by Chicago. They also had to get to the salary cap floor. I think somebody is going to step up and pay him to be a 3C. I would think that he could probably get $3.75 to $4.25 million per year on a four-year deal."
Contract Analysis
If the Oilers can sign Dickinson to a four-year, $4.25 million per year contract, it could be a fair deal for both sides. Dickinson would likely be a valuable third-line checking centre for at least two more years. However, the final two years of the deal, when he is 33 and 34, carry more risk. Ideally, a no-movement clause would apply only to the first two seasons.
On-Ice Performance
Dickinson's even-strength scoring was weak last season, with just 1.01 points per 60 minutes of 5-on-5 play, which is fourth-line level. His hitting rate is higher, making him a solid, mobile, physical player unlikely to score much. The key is whether he can act as a smart, abrasive, efficient checker in a third-line role and on the top penalty kill.
The Oilers also have young centre Josh Samanski, who may be as good a bet as Dickinson. For that reason, passing on Dickinson to open opportunity for Samanski is a viable option. However, having excellent depth at centre is smart, and Dickinson would greatly assist in that category.
What do you think? Should the Oilers re-sign Dickinson or give Samanski a chance?
