Klingberg and announced another top superstar to be added to strengthen the roster. Allan Mitchell of The Athletic took an early look at the Edmonton Oilers’ free agency outlook, analyzing which restricted and unrestricted free agents the team might retain. While most players’ market values were relatively clear, John Klingberg’s situation remains uncertain. However, Mitchell suggests the Oilers could prioritize extending Klingberg’s contract if he proves to be a reliable partner for Darnell Nurse over the next few months.
He explains:
“The ‘too soon to tell’ category applies to Klingberg. Bowman will move fast to get a contract if he and Nurse are able to finalize the second pairing. The result is still undetermined after only five games have been played in Edmonton.”
The Oilers appear to be taking a wait-and-see approach, but they may move swiftly if they feel Klingberg is a valuable asset. They signed him to a low-risk, cost-effective deal this season, gambling on the possibility that he could return to form following a serious injury. So far, early signs have been positive.
However, the NHL’s break for the 4 Nations Face-Off temporarily halted Klingberg’s momentum, making it difficult to fully assess his impact.
How Does Evan Bouchard’s Market Value Affect Klingberg’s Future?
Another key factor in Klingberg’s potential extension is Evan Bouchard’s rising market value. Currently carrying a $3.9 million cap hit, Bouchard could command as much as $12.1 million based on his elite performance in the 2024-25 season.
Mitchell suggests the Oilers should lock Bouchard into a long-term deal this summer, securing both his restricted and unrestricted free agent years. In this scenario, re-signing Klingberg at a team-friendly price could provide leverage in negotiations, preventing the Oilers from being forced into a massive payout for Bouchard without alternatives.
Avalanche and Oilers on a Playoff Collision Course
If the season ended today, the Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers would face off in the first round of the playoffs. As things stand, the Avalanche hold the first wildcard spot, which would set them up against the Oilers, the Pacific Division leaders. However, Edmonton currently holds the second seed behind the Winnipeg Jets, who have a stronger record.
This potential first-round battle would be a must-watch showdown. The Avalanche have the offensive power to challenge the Oilers, while Edmonton possesses the depth and skill to send Colorado packing early. Adding to the excitement is the star-studded matchup between Team Canada teammates Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon, making for an incredible storyline.
While this series has all the makings of a Western Conference classic, it’s unfortunate that these two teams might meet so early in the playoffs. A Conference Final matchup between them would have been even more compelling. However, unless standings shift in the coming weeks, this first-round clash appears inevitable.
There’s still room for movement in the standings. The Avalanche trail the Minnesota Wild by just two points for third place in the Central Division. If they surpass the Wild, they would instead face the Dallas Stars in the first round. Closing the 13-point gap with the Jets seems unlikely, so finishing second or third in the Central is the best Colorado can realistically aim for.
Regardless of their opponent, the Avalanche will need to overcome top competition to reach the Stanley Cup Final.
Why the Avalanche Shouldn’t Fear the Oilers
Facing Connor McDavid and the Oilers in the opening round may seem daunting, but the Avalanche should embrace the challenge. In fact, taking on Edmonton early could work in Colorado’s favor.
The Oilers are a high-powered offensive team with solid defense and capable goaltending. McDavid and Leon Draisaitl form arguably the most dangerous duo in the NHL, making them a difficult matchup for any opponent.
However, the best time to play them might be in the first round, when players are still fresh, rather than in the Conference Final when teams are worn down from grueling playoff battles.
Last season, the Avalanche breezed past the Jets in the first round but struggled against the Stars in the second round, ultimately falling short. Had they made it to the Conference Final to face the Oilers, they would have been battered and fatigued, making it an even tougher challenge.
In that sense, meeting the Oilers early—before exhaustion sets in—could be Colorado’s best opportunity to take them down.
