Oilers Sign Defenseman To Extension

The Edmonton Oilers have signed Markus Niemelainen to a two-year contract extension. He will carry a $762,000 cap hit at the NHL level. 

It's important to note that the first year of Niemelainen's extension is two-way, but it then changes to a one-way the following campaign.

Niemelainen has proven to be a solid depth defenseman for the Oilers when called up. In 20 games this campaign, the 23-year-old has one assist and an immensely impressive 82 hits. The 6-foot-6 defenseman clearly plays a heavy game, and that is always a welcomed aspect to have on the blueline. 

With the Bakersfield Condors, Niemelainen has had a little more of a scoring touch, as he has two goals and five assists in 23 contests. 

Overall, this is a good little signing by the Oilers. The young defenseman should continue to improve from here and will continue to provide them with depth.

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