The Edmonton Oilers continue to expand their presence in the European hockey market, signing another mid-20s player from overseas in hopes of bolstering their NHL roster. The latest addition is Finnish right winger Aku Raty, who has agreed to a one-year, two-way contract worth $850,000.
Oilers' European Strategy
The Oilers are operating with limited draft picks and are focused on their current win-now window, leaving little time to develop prospects from the draft. As a result, the team has shifted its focus to acquiring players who can contribute immediately. Last season, the Oilers signed Swedish Hockey League scoring champion David Tomasek and German free agent forward Josh Samanski. Tomasek recorded two goals in 22 games before returning to Sweden, while Samanski, despite posting just four points in 24 games, showed promise with his physical play and earned a spot on the German Olympic team, remaining in the organization's future plans.
Aku Raty's Background and Potential
Raty, standing six feet tall and weighing 190 pounds, is another low-risk investment with potential for a high reward. He led his team in scoring last season and finished seventh in the Finnish Hockey League with 57 points in 51 games. Raty has consistently produced at various levels: he recorded 42 points in 53 games as a 20-year-old in the Finnish league three years ago, followed by 44 points in 55 games in his first AHL season. However, his resume also includes a dip with 25 points in 65 AHL games two years ago, which led to his return to Finland. Despite this, his recent performance suggests he could be a valuable asset.
Raty was selected in the fifth round, 151st overall, by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2019 NHL Draft. He has played only one NHL game so far, against the Oilers in April 2024, where he recorded a second-period assist in a 5-2 Arizona victory.
Additional European Signings
The Oilers began their European recruitment this year in late March by signing 21-year-old Czech defenceman Tomas Cibulka to a two-year entry-level contract. Cibulka is known for his puck-moving abilities and adds depth to the organization's defensive prospects.
With Raty's signing, the Oilers continue to explore international talent to complement their roster as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
