Klim Kostin Could Sign With Oilers' Division Rivals Instead

The Edmonton Oilers have made their offseason alterations, getting younger and faster, but they are still waiting on potentially getting better in net. While the group isn't exactly set, it is pretty close and there may be one position up for grabs or able to be won.

Free agent Klim Kostin has been hoping for the opportunity to return to Edmonton after leaving for more money following his career best season in 2022-23, scoring 11 goals and 21 points in 57 games while averaging 10 minutes per game and only producing at 5-on-5. He got paid by the Detroit Red Wings, but was then traded in his first season, only to play out his contract with the San Jose Sharks, getting into less than half of the games.

When Kostin was last with the Oilers, he was 23 years old and was seen as someone with potential. Now, at 26 years old, that ship has sailed, but it doesn't mean he can't still be a productive piece in the organization. Kostin mentioned that he would love another shot to play with the Oilers, but also confirmed that there was interest from the Los Angeles Kings, one of, if not the Oilers' current biggest rival.

For a player like Kostin who is just hoping to sign and have a chance to play anywhere in the NHL, he can't be picking where he signs. There is now an opportunity for him to get an even better shot at making the Kings' lineup if he signs there considering Corey Perry is out for the foreseeable future. That is how Kostin got his shot in Edmonton, playing well and working hard until he got his chance. This could come a lot sooner and the Kings may have use for him in the lineup or at least on the roster to open the season.

If there is still interest, Kostin shouldn't wait for the Oilers any longer. He should go with the Kings because at the end of the day, it would be easier to make the roster and prove he is still an NHL player and it's a business. He must make business decisions. With his style of play, I think he could become an everyday bottom-6 player if he gets an opportunity and plays like he can.