The Edmonton Oilers have spent the opening weeks of the offseason reinforcing areas they believe are critical to the team’s success. Rather than letting two experienced additions test free agency, the organization has moved to secure them long-term and bring stability in key areas of the lineup.

The Montreal Canadiens were just handed a significant setback in their offseason blueprint following a major extension out west. General manager Kent Hughes had prioritized adding a veteran, physical presence to solidify Montreal’s young blue line ahead of the free agency market opening on July 1.

Prioritizing unfinished business over free agency, the veteran duo commits to Edmonton’s high ceiling while welcoming the potential arrival of a demanding new bench boss.

The Edmonton Oilers have taken care of two pending free agents now, with contracts for Jason Dickinson and Connor Murphy.

Edmonton secures a vital shutdown presence, locking in the reliable right-shot defenseman to stabilize the blue line and provide cost certainty amidst looming questions surrounding Darnell Nurse’s future.

The Oilers recently extended Jason Dickinson and now have their sights set on extending another unrestricted free agent.

The Chicago Blackhawks sent a few players to the Edmonton Oilers in 2025-26, and they may be sticking around.

Edmonton will prioritize extensions for Connor Murphy and Jason Dickinson, but other circumstances could force Jack Roslovic and others onto the market.

Coming off a stunning run to the Eastern Conference Final, the Montreal Canadiens head into the 2026 offseason with expectations higher than they’ve been in years. General Manager Kent Hughes is now actively looking to bolster the roster to turn it into a legitimate, long-term Stanley Cup contender.