The Edmonton Oilers were given the biggest reality check of the season so far by the New York Islanders when the latter secured their first win at home ice. The 4-2 victory, made possible by Bo Horvat’s terrific showing, also marked a special milestone for the Islanders’ rookie defenseman, Matthew Schaefer.
The Oilers were coming off a massive shutout win against the New York Rangers, but failed to keep up with the notorious Islanders, who were desperate to turn things around for them. As Edmonton gains its footing, it has been increasingly linked to Los Angeles Kings cornerstone Adrian Kempe.
Are the Edmonton Oilers Partaking in Adrian Kempe Sweepstakes?
The Kings need to accept that the mammoth point machine of their lineup, Kempe, is verging on free agency, and teams are watching over like hawks. The 29-year-old is currently in the final year of his four-year, $22 million contract with Los Angeles with an average annual value of $5.5 million. The winger will hit free agency in 2026, and the future belongs to whoever signs him next.
Obviously, Kempe’s value is expected to go up. The two parties, Kings and Kempe, have been involved in contract negotiations. Not long after Elliotte Friedman reported that talks between the two had halted, the team’s president, Luc Robitaille, helped restore faith in the fanbase that communication was still ongoing.
Robitaille emphasized the winger’s importance to the team’s aspirations and stated that the focus remained on deciding on an agreeable number for both parties.
“It’s still ongoing. It’s just finding the number that works for us and works for him. He’s a priority for us. Kenny told me the same and said they’re going to keep talking until they get it done,” Robitaille stated as per the Hockey News’ Andre Leal.
However, reaching a number that suits both parties could emerge as the bone of contention that may push Kempe to consider other prospects. Reports have emerged that Kempe’s average annual value can be higher, with Pierre LeBrun suggesting that it could be around $11 to $12 million. According to David Pagnotta, the Kings must make peace with the higher price tag that Kempe’s next contract is expected to bear.
Pagnotta further stated that teams like the Oilers are intently following the contract negotiations and watching how they unfold. Does this mean Edmonton is interested in acquiring Kempe?
Kempe can be an asset to any team with the cap space available to acquire him. The Oilers must come out on top to retain Connor McDavid, and adding the elite winger to the lineup can be a reasonable move. Moreover, the 29-year-old may also seek a longer contract for stability, which the Oilers may be interested in.
