The Edmonton Oilers have taken a significant and public step with veteran forward Trent Frederic, declaring him a healthy scratch for Sunday's clash against the Vegas Golden Knights. This decision comes as a stark development for the 27-year-old winger, who just this past summer inked a substantial eight-year contract worth $3.85 million per season.
A Steep Decline and a Coach's Hope
Frederic's benching against Vegas on December 21, 2025, is the latest in a series of demotions. His play this season has already seen him moved down from the team's top line to its bottom unit. Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the severity of the move, calling it a "very drastic measure" intended to serve as a complete reset for the struggling player.
"I believe Trent’s gonna come back to the lineup and be a big part of our team moving forward," Knoblauch told reporters, including TSN's Ryan Rishaug. He drew a parallel to the fresh start of the playoffs, suggesting Frederic needs to step away to clear his mind and return with a renewed perspective, much like a player who underperforms in the regular season but excels when the postseason begins.
The Costly Acquisition and Ongoing Struggles
The Oilers' investment in Frederic was significant. Prior to the 2025 NHL trade deadline, then-General Manager Stan Bowman orchestrated a deal to acquire him from the Boston Bruins. The price was steep: a second-round pick, a fourth-round pick, and prospects Max Wanner and Shane LaChance, with Boston retaining half of Frederic's salary.
His integration into the lineup was delayed by a high ankle sprain suffered on February 25, 2025, which sidelined him until the final game of the regular season. Frederic did manage to suit up for all 22 of Edmonton's playoff games during their 2025 run. However, statistical analysis reveals he was the team's least effective winger throughout that postseason and has continued to struggle in the 2025-26 regular season.
Underlying Performance Metrics Tell the Story
An examination of his playoff performance shows Frederic had the lowest rate among Oilers wingers of contributing to Grade A scoring chances, a rate half that of the next lowest player. In terms of making major contributions to high-danger shots, only Conor Brown ranked lower. Conversely, Frederic's rate of mistakes leading to Grade A shots against was the highest of any Edmonton winger during the playoffs.
This latest "drastic reset" represents a major gamble for the Oilers' coaching staff. With seven years remaining on a lucrative contract, the organization is banking on a brief stint in the press box to spark a turnaround for a player they paid a hefty price to obtain. Whether this move simplifies a complex situation or adds further pressure remains to be seen as the Oilers navigate their season.
