Oilers Rumors: Frederic To Get Interesting Contract Extension

While the Edmonton Oilers are fighting for the Stanley Cup once again, they appear to be closing in on an extension with one of their upcoming UFAs that they acquired at the trade deadline, Trent Frederic.

Ahead of this season, it looked like Frederic was going to get a solid raise from what he's currently making, but an injury and a down season put that to a stop. Instead, Bob Stauffer hinted that the Oilers are looking at a contract extension for Frederic that is in the seven year, $3.15 million AAV range. This not only keeps him around and could turn into a great contract if he bounces back/fully heals, but creates stability and a commitment on the side of the player.

The 27-year-old scored eight goals and 15 points in 58 games. He only played one regular season game with the Oilers, but has played in 19 playoff games, scoring one goal and four points. That's not exactly the money that should be awarded to a player doing as little as he has, but some believe that he is still dealing with his high ankle sprain.

Frederic is a physical player who put up 17 goals and 18 goals respectively in the past two seasons, so he is very capable. His style of play translates over to the playoffs and could be a solid third line player moving forward on a cheap deal if he plays up to the expected contract.

There have been a few players who have gotten these types of deals, and a lengthy contract with a lower AAV has been handed out twice by the Tampa Bay Lightning with Nick Paul and more recently, Yanni Gourde. Paul has worked out, we have to wait and see with Gourde, but Miles Wood with the Colorado Avalanche and Pierre Engvall with the New York Islanders have gone the other way. It's a risk, but one the Oilers may be willing to take.