Report: Alex Formenton Chose Oilers Over 2 Cup Contenders

The Edmonton Oilers surprised many observers around the NHL when they signed Alex Formenton earlier this month after four years out of the NHL. But as it turns out, they weren't the only contending team pursuing the former Ottawa Senator in his return to the NHL. According to insider Darren Dreger, Formenton chose the Oil over both of last year's Stanley Cup Finalists.

Darren Dreger says the Carolina Hurricanes and Vegas Golden Knights both had serious interest in signing Alex Formenton.

But Formenton chose Edmonton because of his friendship with Evan Bouchard and his history with D.J. Smith from their time together in Ottawa.

Looks like…

— Bleed Oil Blue (@BleedOilBlue) September 21, 2026

Dreger said on The Neilson Show that the Carolina Hurricanes and Vegas Golden Knights had "considerable interest" in Formenton. But he chose Edmonton mostly for two reasons.

One was because of his history with Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard. "They are really good buddies."

But No. 2, and just as important, was the time he spent with new Edmonton assistant coach D.J. Smith when the two were together in Ottawa.

And so far (yes, it's very early), it's looking like it could work out pretty well for the Oilers, as Formenton was a top player for them in their first exhibition game on Sunday.  

Alex Formenton looked amazing tonight. Was easily our best forward on the ice and looked like a more defensively responsible version of Matt Savoie

If this move ends up working out for Edmonton, a lot of people are going to owe Stan Bowman an apology pic.twitter.com/lktbd4wYVZ

— Top Tier Hockey (@TopTierPucks) September 20, 2026

Formenton's last NHL appearance was back in the 2021-22 season with the Sens, and he produced 18 goals and 32 points for them.

He left North America after that season, however, and has played three of the last four years with Ambri-Piotta in Switzerland. The other year, 2024-25, he didn't play professional hockey, as he was one of the five former Canadian World Junior players accused in relation to the 2018 sexual assault scandal. He was acquitted last summer, as were the other four players. 

Carter Hart has already returned to the NHL, this past season with the Golden Knights, while a third player, Dillon Dube, has signed on with the St. Louis Blues for this season.