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Trent Frederic’s $30.8M Oilers contract under fire for being ‘complete anchor’
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- Trent Frederic’s $30.8M Oilers contract under fire for being ‘complete anchor’
Edmonton Oilers forward Trent Frederic has landed on Dom Luszczyszyn's list of the NHL 's worst contracts. In his latest column for The Athletic , Luszczyszyn ranked Frederic's eight-year, $30.8 million extension as the league's sixth-worst deal after a disappointing first year.
Frederic signed the extension in June 2025, carrying a $3.85 million annual cap hit. Edmonton expected the former Boston Bruins forward to become a dependable middle-six contributor. Instead, his production dropped sharply during the 2025-26 campaign.
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Luszczyszyn questioned whether the contract still makes sense in a rising salary cap environment. "Frederic had just seven points in 74 games last season and was a real drag at five-on-five," he wrote. He added, "His contract now feels like a complete anchor where he's being paid nearly $4 million to be basically replacement level."
Frederic finished the regular season with four goals, seven points and a minus-15 rating. He also went scoreless in four playoff games before becoming a healthy scratch. Edmonton exited in the first round by losing its series to the Anaheim Ducks in six games.
Oilers still hope Trent Frederic can justify long-term investment
Edmonton Oilers center Trent Frederic (10) warms up before a game at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
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Luszczyszyn acknowledged Edmonton's original thinking behind the deal. "The hope was Frederic would return to that level when healthy; instead, Edmonton saw him drop further toward the abyss," he wrote.
The analyst wrote that there is still a path forward, although optimism remains limited. "A new coach and more opportunity could get Frederic back on track, but for now that's a tough sell," Luszczyszyn wrote.
He also pointed to a broader lesson for NHL front offices. "Don't give extreme term to depth players — especially if it doesn't come with any notable AAV discount," he concluded.
Frederic arrived in Edmonton through a three-team trade last year, and has built his reputation as a physical, versatile bottom-six forward capable of playing center or wing. However, he has struggled after receiving opportunities on a roster featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
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The criticism reflects performance rather than contract value alone. Edmonton's management committed eight years based on Frederic's previous middle-six potential. The Oilers have since reshaped their roster and hired Mike Babcock after their playoff disappointment.
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If Frederic rebounds, the contract may become more manageable. If last season becomes the norm, Luszczyszyn's "complete anchor" label will only gain more support.
